Outlines the history of the ideals and enactment of the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Includes a discussion of the origins of the concept of human rights, the impact of World War II, the role of nongovernmental organizations, and the process of drafting and adopting the UDHR. (DSK)

Presents a historical review of German relations with European nations from the end of World War II until 1992. Claims that Chancellor Willy Brandt's efforts to improve East-West relations set the stage for German reunification. Contends that Germany's role in a united Europe has yet to be determined. (CFR)

Presents a selective chronology of three aspects of German history since World War II: the origins of the postwar division of Germany; the effects of two major policy decisions by West Germany after 1949; and the unification process after 1989. Contends that France and Germany will remain the core nations in the evolution of the European…

Reviews the economic restoration of West Germany through the Marshall Plan following World War II. Traces the development of the European Community from the Schuman Declaration of 1950 to the present. Contends that Germany's economy must remain closely tied to a united Europe in the post-Cold War international system. (CFR)

Asserts that the world has entered a period of transition and turmoil. Discusses achievements of the United Nations and three realities: (1) the comprehensive nature of the global challenge; (2) the indispensability of the United Nations in the new international context; and (3) the gap between the demands on the Organization and its resources.…

Describes the history and role of nongovernmental organizations within the United Nations structure. Discusses how the United Nations Economic and Social Council has recognized more than 1,000 organizations as consultants in its work to improve economic and social conditions throughout the world. (CFR)

Discusses contact between the United States and Japan. Comments that the history of the relationship is a long one that becomes increasingly interdependent. Describes the relationship as characterized by a disparity of power and interest now shifting toward Japan. Emphasizes that changes in the relationship have always depended on the world…

Asserts that the expansion of the United Nations' peacekeeping commitments has strained the organization's ability to intervene in violent local conflicts before they get out of hand. Discusses efforts to create a permanent peacekeeping force early in United Nations history and how such a force might operate. (CFR)

Presents two interviews with soldiers assigned to United Nations peacekeeping efforts. Outlines nine steps in any UN peacekeeping operation. Includes 13 quotes gathered from soldiers and UN officials involved in peacekeeping in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. (CFR)

Discusses a teacher's views of changes in education about and attitude toward Japan as it shifted from a military to an economic power. Describes pre-World War II views of Japan and the evolution of U.S. public opinion over time. Includes information on university outreach programs, private cooperative groups, resource centers, and teacher travel…

Maintains that, over the past 50 years, the United States has had an unusually close and tumultuous relationship with the United Nations. Provides an historical review of world events since the beginning of the United Nations and describes the U.S. role in the organization. (CFR)

Introduces a special theme issue on the 50th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. Asserts that the anniversary comes at a time when increasing demands are being made upon the UN to play a leading role in world affairs. Calls for teachers to incorporate the United Nations into courses throughout the curriculum. (CFR)

Maintains that, although the United Nations and its New York headquarters is well-known, the location and activities of the World Court in the Hague, Netherlands, are seldom mentioned in the news. Discusses the origins, structure, and composition of the International Court of Justice, better known as the World Court. (CFR)