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 social and economic indicators for each country, such as GNP, life expectancy, and population growth and density. References to source books and recommendations for further reading, whether at international, national, or regional level, are also given. Key Feature A handy reference source on each country of the world Profiles of 230 countries and territories with maps Global data showing the main social and economic indicators for each country Further reading and references About the Author PETER STALKER Peter Stalker is a writer, based in Oxford, who works as a consultant to many UN agencies. He is a former editor of the annual Human Development Report, which is produced by the United Nations Development Programme, and written several books on international labour migration for the International Labour Organization. His website is at www.pstalker.com. Table of Contents Country profiles listed A-Z Global Data tables showing main social and economic indicators for each country References and further reading