Authored by Georg Kell the founding Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, this peer-reviewed article is the opening chapter for engagement of "non state actors". The Handbook examines practical aspects and conceptual issues of international organizations and their relationship with nation-states and international authority; considers the main controversies surrounding contemporary international organizations; provides an authoritative overview of international organizations written by leading scholars and practitioners; and offers comprehensive analysis and commentary on the role of international organizations today.