United Nations Day 2025: 5 Books To Add To Your Reading List For Global Awareness

This list of five books is carefully selected to help you understand the UN from different perspectives. From beginner guides to in-depth handbooks, these reads show how international policies shape economies, societies, and governance systems.

By Sujanta Roy Published On: Oct 16, 2025 12:51 PM IST Last Updated On: Oct 16, 2025 01:04 PM IST
What books should you read to learn about the United Nations in 2025

What books should you read to learn about the United Nations in 2025

Have you ever wondered how the United Nations works and impacts global issues every day? Picture this: world leaders sitting together to solve conflicts, fight poverty, and improve health standards for millions. Understanding the UN and related global policies is not only for students or professionals; it helps anyone become aware of how decisions affect people worldwide. Reading specific books on the United Nations can give you real insights into economics, politics, and human rights, making you more informed and ready to engage in conversations about global issues. Upgrading your knowledge by reading these books can also help in exams, projects, or discussions on global topics. Alongside learning, you can explore historical and economic contexts that affect every nation today. Let's explore these books and understand why they are important for anyone wanting to grasp the workings of the United Nations.

What books should you read to learn about the United Nations in 2025

What books should you read to learn about the United Nations in 2025
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The Great Indian Festival offers discounts on selected books during Diwali. This is a good opportunity to upgrade your collection and learn more about the UN and global issues at affordable prices. Check the Amazon website for festival deals and special bundles available on these titles.

Also Read: Diwali Reading Special: Top Manga Books On Great Indian Festival Sale

At A Glance: Top 5 Picks On Books On Global Awareness
Product Name  Author Name  Cover Type User Rating  Price 
The United Nations Rumki Basu Paperback 4.4/5 ₹350
The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith Adam Smith Paperback 4.5/5 ₹465
The Oxford Handbook on the United Nations Thomas G. Weiss (Editor), Sam Daws (Editor) Kindle  4.8/5 ₹628
The United Nations - A Beginner's Guide by Norrie MacQueen Norrie MacQueen Paperback 4.4/5 ₹799
United Nations: A Very Short Introduction  Jussi M. Hanhimäki Paperback 4.7/5 ₹899

Top 5 Books To Read On Global Awareness

1. The United Nations by Rumki Basu

Have you thought about how the UN came into existence and its main functions? This book explains the history, structure, and key activities of the United Nations. Readers can understand how peacekeeping, development, and human rights programs are carried out worldwide. The author discusses major UN agencies and their roles in global governance. It is suitable for students, professionals, or anyone interested in international affairs. The book provides both factual details and context to better understand world events.

Key Features:

  • Explains UN structure and purpose clearly
  • Covers history and evolution of the UN
  • Details major UN programs and agencies
  • Offers examples of international cooperation
  • Helps understand global governance issues

2. The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith

How do nations build wealth and influence global economies? This classic book explains economic principles that impact trade, production, and global policies. Adam Smith discusses how markets work and the role of government in economic growth. Readers can connect these ideas to how international decisions affect global trade and poverty. This book forms a foundation to understand the economic side of global governance. It is useful for students, policy enthusiasts, and anyone studying international relations.

Key Features:

  • Explains fundamental economic principles
  • Connects economics with global governance
  • Shows effects of trade and policies on nations
  • Offers historical perspective on economic systems
  • Helps understand wealth distribution and growth

3. The Oxford Handbook on the United Nations by Thomas G. Weiss & Sam Daws

Do you want to explore a detailed guide on how the UN works today? This handbook provides comprehensive coverage of UN institutions, peacekeeping, development, and humanitarian operations. Editors Thomas Weiss and Sam Daws compile insights from experts worldwide. Readers can gain knowledge of UN reforms and challenges in the modern era. The book helps scholars, professionals, and enthusiasts understand international cooperation. It gives a clear picture of the UN's ongoing global role.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive coverage of UN functions
  • Includes insights from global experts
  • Discusses peacekeeping and humanitarian aid
  • Explains challenges and reforms
  • Suitable for academic and professional use

4. The United Nations - A Beginner's Guide by Norrie MacQueen

Are you new to learning about the UN? This guide simplifies the UN's structure, operations, and global impact. MacQueen explains complex topics like international law, peacekeeping, and human rights in a simple way. It is suitable for students, professionals, or curious readers. The book also provides case studies of UN missions worldwide. It is an easy starting point to understand global governance and international relations.

Key Features:

  • Simplifies UN concepts for beginners
  • Covers peacekeeping and human rights
  • Includes real-world case studies
  • Explains international law and policy
  • Helps build foundational knowledge

5. United Nations: A Very Short Introduction by Jussi M. Hanhimäki

Do you want a quick overview of the UN's role in the world? This book provides a concise explanation of the UN's history, structure, and global challenges. Hanhimäki highlights peace, security, development, and human rights programs. Readers can grasp complex issues in a short read. It is suitable for students, professionals, or anyone looking for a brief introduction. The book also discusses the impact of international policies on societies.

Key Features:

  • Concise overview of the UN
  • Highlights main UN functions
  • Explains peace, development, and rights
  • Easy to read for beginners
  • Useful for quick knowledge acquisition

Reading about the United Nations helps you understand the world better and prepares you for discussions on global topics. These books provide both historical and modern insights into international policies. By exploring different perspectives, you gain knowledge about economics, peacekeeping, and human rights. Upgrading your understanding with these books is useful for students, professionals, and anyone curious about global governance. Take advantage of Diwali offers to add these important reads to your collection today. Check out the top deals from Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best book to start learning about the United Nations?

The United Nations - A Beginner's Guide by Norrie MacQueen is the easiest starting point. It explains complex UN topics in simple language with practical examples of missions and programs worldwide.

2. Are these books suitable for students?

Yes, all five books are suitable for students. They offer a mix of beginner-friendly guides and detailed handbooks to help with studies, projects, or research on international policies.

3. Which book focuses on global economics?

The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith focuses on economic principles that influence nations and global trade policies. It helps readers understand the economic context of international relations.

4. Can professionals benefit from these books?

Yes, handbooks like The Oxford Handbook on the United Nations provide detailed insights useful for professionals in international law, politics, and global development fields.

5. How long do these books take to read?

Reading time varies: short introductions may take a few hours, while comprehensive handbooks could take several days to finish, depending on your pace.

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