Jacob Katz Cogan reviews "An International Relations Debacle" by Palley, which details the Cyprus negotiations. Palley highlights the shift from good offices to UN arbitration, a misstep that risked a fair settlement. She notes the failure to use legal opinions during negotiations, which could have helped achieve a lasting solution. The book is detailed, with footnotes, photographs, and annexes, offering a firsthand account of events. Palley's work balances other publications, providing an objective view of the Cyprus situation. "Rules for the World" by Michael Barnett and Martha Finnemore examines international organizations (IOs) as autonomous actors. The authors argue that IOs, like states, are active participants in the international system, not just passive subjects. They critique traditional international relations scholarship that overlooks IO agency. IOs have autonomy due to authority, power, and bureaucratic characteristics. They can act in various ways, sometimes counter to state interests. IOs face pathologies like rule fetishism and overspecialization, but also drive change through cultural factors. The book uses case studies, including the IMF, UNHCR, and UN peacekeeping, to illustrate IO autonomy and challenges. The IMF expanded its role beyond its original mandate, while UNHCR faced issues with repatriation policies. The UN Secretariat's failure to intervene in Rwanda highlighted the risks of adhering strictly to peacekeeping rules. The conclusion emphasizes the need to manage IOs' growing power, balancing their strengths and weaknesses. Barnett and Finnemore argue that while IOs promote liberal values, their detachment and lack of democracy raise concerns. The book is a significant contribution to international relations, prompting questions about IO accountability and control.Jacob Katz Cogan reviews "An International Relations Debacle" by Palley, which details the Cyprus negotiations. Palley highlights the shift from good offices to UN arbitration, a misstep that risked a fair settlement. She notes the failure to use legal opinions during negotiations, which could have helped achieve a lasting solution. The book is detailed, with footnotes, photographs, and annexes, offering a firsthand account of events. Palley's work balances other publications, providing an objective view of the Cyprus situation. "Rules for the World" by Michael Barnett and Martha Finnemore examines international organizations (IOs) as autonomous actors. The authors argue that IOs, like states, are active participants in the international system, not just passive subjects. They critique traditional international relations scholarship that overlooks IO agency. IOs have autonomy due to authority, power, and bureaucratic characteristics. They can act in various ways, sometimes counter to state interests. IOs face pathologies like rule fetishism and overspecialization, but also drive change through cultural factors. The book uses case studies, including the IMF, UNHCR, and UN peacekeeping, to illustrate IO autonomy and challenges. The IMF expanded its role beyond its original mandate, while UNHCR faced issues with repatriation policies. The UN Secretariat's failure to intervene in Rwanda highlighted the risks of adhering strictly to peacekeeping rules. The conclusion emphasizes the need to manage IOs' growing power, balancing their strengths and weaknesses. Barnett and Finnemore argue that while IOs promote liberal values, their detachment and lack of democracy raise concerns. The book is a significant contribution to international relations, prompting questions about IO accountability and control.