The seven studies in this book address the interlinkages with human security of such major issues as the human rights and human security nexus, gender aspects of human security, ethical and environmental challenges, human security as a basic element for a policy framework, the human security agenda developed by the Human Security Network, and debates on human security within the United Nations. Building on its variety of themes, the book takes account of the complexity and scope of the concept of human security, and proposes thereby to refresh and enrich discussion.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) commissioned internationally renowned experts in the different subfields of human security to prepare the background studies edited for inclusion in this volume. They offer an overview of current trends and insights on what is at stake. Time is of the essence if the international community is to maintain the momentum created a few years ago when the concept of human security emerged.

UNESCO, for its part, has for many years given its support to academic research on human security issues, though regional conferences, expert meetings, and participation in institutional and ministerial gatherings, in close collaboration with the main international actors and decision-makers in this field, as reflected in the recent publication Human Security: Approaches and Challenges.

Rethinking Human Security is addressed both to newcomers and to experts in the field of human security. It is designed to help them to find inspiration in the new developments of a concept that aims to shape practical action to meet the needs of the most vulnerable.