An up-to-date handbook providing a snapshot of each country in the world. There is a map to show location and a brief overview of the geography, with the focus on the contemporary social, economic, and political issues that shape each country. There are data tables that show the main socialand economic indicators for each country, as well as information on international organizations, agencies, and agreements such as the United Nations, the European Union, and Amnesty International. References to source books and recommendations for further reading, whether at international, national,or regional level, are also given.