Emergency Sex (And Other Desperate Measures)

Discover the riveting narrative of 'Emergency Sex (And Other Desperate Measures)', a captivating paperback that dives deep into the tumultuous experiences of three idealistic individuals during the 1990s. As Andrew, Ken, and Heidi navigate the challenges of global peacekeeping with the UN, they find themselves swept into war-torn regions like Cambodia, Rwanda, and Bosnia. This compelling book offers a unique blend of black humor and poignant storytelling, revealing the harsh realities of international interventions and the personal struggles within bureaucratic systems. Readers will gain insight into not only the lives of these protagonists but also the pressing global issues that surround them. Perfect for those interested in non-fiction books addressing humanitarian crises and the complexities of UN operations, this book is a must-read. With its powerful criticism of Western indifference to developing nations, 'Emergency Sex' raises important questions about our world today. Explore the intertwined fates of these young adventurers and reflect on the themes of idealism, disillusionment, and resilience. Ideal for book clubs, academic discussions, or personal reading, this 320-page paperback marks a significant contribution to the discourse on global responsibilities.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780091908867
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2006
Publisher: RANDOM HOUSE UK
Pages: 320


Description:
It's the early 1990s and three young people are looking to change their lives, and perhaps also the world. Attracted to the ambitious global peacekeeping work of the UN, Andrew, Ken and Heidi's paths cross in Cambodia, from where their fates are to become inextricably bound.Over the coming years, their stories interweave through countries such Rwanda, Bosnia, Somalia and Haiti - war-torn, lawless places where the intervention of the UN is needed like nowhere else. Driven by idealism, the three struggle to do the best they can, caught up in an increasingly tangled web of bureaucracy and ineffectual leadership. As disillusionment sets in, they attempt to keep hold of their humanity through black humour, revelry and 'emergency sex'.Brutal and moving in equal measure, Emergency Sex (And Other Desperate Measures) explores pressing global issues while never losing a sense of the personal. Deeply critical of the West's indifference to developing countries and the UN's repeated failure to intervene decisively, the book provoked massive controversy on its initial publication. Kofi Annan called for the book to be banned, and debate was sparked about the future direction of the UN. Brilliantly written and mordantly funny, it is a book that continues to make waves.