The book is based on an empirical observation and a theoretical claim. The observation derives from four interconnected developments in international politics: (i) the ideological battle between the two super powers which dominated world politics for over forty years has ended; (ii) the economic development of the Asia-Pacific Basin which throws into stark contrast the plight of other peripheral regions; (iii) the emergence of a neo-liberal democratization ideology which structures states' interactions with global institutions; and (iv) the further marginalisation of the African continent within the global economy. The theoretical claim is that these global changes have a profound impact on the traditional division of the international system into First, Second and Third Worlds. This volume provides major theoretical analysis of these trends, as well as in-depth case studies that explore specific developments.