Does the World Need a Government?

This book discusses the kind of global institutions that we may need if humanity is to survive the 21st century. From climate change and biodiversity loss to nuclear threats and future space exploration, the challenges humanity faces are such that no single nation can solve them alone. It explores whether our current system of sovereign nation-states is equipped to handle these problems on a global scale, or if new forms of global governance are urgently needed. The book examines whether reforming the United Nations, for example by adding a parliamentary assembly, or establishing a federal world government might offer better solutions. Drawing on political theory, international law and global ethics, the book invites readers to consider bold alternatives for organising human cooperation on a planetary scale. It will appeal to students, scholars and researchers of international relations, political science and global governance, as well as policymakers and leaders, members of civil society organisations and anyone interested in improving world governance.