This short introduction to the United Nations analyzes the organization as it is today, and how it can be transformed to respond to its critics. Combining essential information about its history and workings with practical proposals of how it can be strengthened, Trent and Schnurr examine what needs to be done, and also how we can actually move toward the required reforms. This book is written for a new generation of change-makers ― a generation seeking better institutions that reflect the realities of the twenty-first century and that can act collectively in the interest of all.A simple introduction to the UN as an organization is not sufficient for the new generation. This primer aims to make readers understand the UN's historical, technological, political, and economic context in order to analyze its strengths and weaknesses in the light of proposals being made to create more workable global institutions.