James Gustave Speth

In the following viewpoint, James Gustave Speth contends the United Nations has helped improve the quality of life in developing nations. He asserts that the UN is an essential contributor to Third World development for many reasons, including its national and commercial neutrality and its universal presence. Speth argues that the UN development programs should be strengthened to prevent the poverty and unemployment that often lead to violent conflicts. Speth is the Dean of the School of Forestry and Environmental Studies at Yale University and the former head of the United Nations Development Programme. This viewpoint was originally an address Speth gave in February 1996 before the World Affairs Forum.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. How much money does the UN provide...