Restless Citizens

The world is full of restless citizens and Dr. Udom in this eminently readable book paints the picture of international civil servants at the end of the twentieth century. The picture is sometimes gloomy and often exhilarating. The UN is a product of ourworld and not surprisingly it replicates the characteristics of our world. I have had the privilege of observing the international civil service from the perspective of an academic in African universities and have had the privilege of working within the system for nearly twenty years, but most importantly to observe the actors for more than a decade since retirement. The world has significantly changed but one thing is clear that the UN and its staff are necessary to the maintenance of international peace even if it is relative. I would recommend everyone to read this book, especially prospective, active, and retired servants of the non-existent world government. -- Professor Gottlieb Lobe Monekosso, WHO regional director emeritus This book is unique in focusing on the UN employees, especially those who do vital humanitarian work in war-torn and dysfunctional states. In striking contrast to the popular image of international officials as overpaid, underemployed, lazy, and privileged persons engaged in useless bureaucratic work, Udoh Udom presents a startling picture of an overworked and overstressed group of people struggling with insecurities of life, property, finance, and marriage, suffering from family separation, loneliness, and statelessness. This is a welcome antidote to the distorted image of a dedicated band of workers peddled by the right wing media. It should appeal to all with interest in international agencies, global development, and humanitarian work. -- Dharam Ghai, former director, United Nations Research Institute for Social Development, Geneva The world is full of restless citizens and Dr. Udom in this eminently readable book paints the picture of international civil servants at the end of the twentieth century. The picture is sometimes gloomy and often exhilarating. The UN is a product of our world and not surprisingly it replicates the characteristics of our world. I have had the privilege of observing the international civil service from the perspective of an academic in African universities and have had the privilege of working within the system for nearly twenty years, but most importantly to observe the actors for more than a decade since retirement. The world has significantly changed but one thing is clear that the UN and its staff are necessary to the maintenance of international peace even if it is relative. I would recommend everyone to read this book, especially prospective, active, and retired servants of the non-existent world government. -- Professor Gottlieb Lobe Monekosso, WHO regional director emeritus