This concise text presents a focused, well-rounded, and clear-eyed introduction to the concept of human security. Questioning the utility of traditional national-security frameworks in the post-Cold War era, Paul Battersby and Joseph M. Siracusa argue that we must urgently reconsider the principle of state sovereignty in a global world where threats to humanity are beyond the capacity of any one nation to address through unilateral action. The authors highlight circumstances, actors, and influences beyond the traditional focus on state security, especially the role of international organizations and nongovernmental organizations. They also emphasize the importance of human rights, arguing for the development of an effective intervention capacity to protect individuals from state action as well as other security threats arising from conflict, poverty, disease, and environmental degradation. A welcome alternative to state-centric approaches to security, this balanced book will be a valuable supplement for courses in international and national security.

About the Author
Paul Battersby is associate professor of international relations, School of Global Studies, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University. Joseph M. Siracusa is professor of human security and international diplomacy and director of the School of Global Studies, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University.

Reviews
This wonderful book will provide both generalists and specialists a better understanding of the multidimensionality of issues related to human security. All government officials should give this work a careful read as they consider how their policies will enhance or inhibit the development of a more stable, secure world. -- Scott Kaufman, Francis Marion University
In a balanced, well-written synthesis, Battersby and Siracusa quite rightly point out that the quest for human security requires resolution of political, social, and economic injustices. Instructors will find this an excellent book to motivate students to think about human problems globally. -- Richard Dean Burns



Book Information
ISBN 9780742556539
Author Paul Battersby
Format Paperback
Page Count 264
Imprint Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Publisher Rowman & Littlefield
Weight(grams) 390g
Dimensions(mm) 236mm * 153mm * 19mm