Intended for professionals requiring up-to-date statistics and directory information on any country in the world, or background details on the politics and economics of countries, this book surveys recent history, government, economic affairs, defence, education, social welfare and other areas.

This reference contains: over 3000 pages of statistical and analytical information on more than 250 countries and territories; extensive detailed coverage of 1650 international organizations and their functions, including the United Nations and agencies within the UN (for example, The United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organization, The World Health Organization, The International Labour Organization, The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, The International Olympic Committee and The United Nations Children's Fund), NATO, the Commonwealth and the European Union. There is a world survey, with separate chapters on every country, arranged alphabetically by country. Each chapter includes an introductory section, covering - recent history, economic affairs, government, defence, the economy, geographical information, climate, language, flag, capital, public holidays, weights and measurements, social welfare and education. There is also a statistical survey for each country, providing the latest official statistics on area and population, agriculture, forestry, fishing, mining, industry, finance, external trade, transport, tourism, education and communications media. A wide-ranging directory gives information on each country's: constitution, government, legislature, political organizations, diplomatic representation, judicial system, religion, press, publishers, radion and television, finance, trade and industry, transport and tourism. Volume 1 covers international organizations and countries from Afghanistan to Jordan. Volume 2 covers Kazakhstan to Zimbabwe, and is included in the set price. Volume 1 is being published in April 1995 and volume 2 is published in June 1995.