The links between security and globalization were highlighted by the 2001 terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, DC, and the subsequent long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Lingering poverty, inequality, religious extremism and war can sow discontent and resentment as unprecedented global mobility lends access to education and travel in other countries. Despite use of drones, cyber-warfare and other advanced weapons technology to mount counterterrorist attacks, the marginalized can strike out at vulnerable urban or economic centers. Annual global defense spending exceeds $1.6 trillion. Containing the trade in weapons, whether nuclear bombs or assault rifles, and preventing them from falling into the wrong hands remain a challenge.

Taiwan's Challenge to China and the World - Part I

Taiwan's democratic exercise provokes muscle flexing in Beijing and keeps Western defense industries in business
Jean-Pierre Cabestan
March 12, 2004

Anti-Piracy Patrols Presage Rising Naval Powers

An enduring legacy of Somali piracy could be new navies on the high seas
Brian Wilson
January 13, 2009

The Dilemma of Dealing With Terror Central

Could the war on terror intersect with an India-Pakistan war?
Ramesh Thakur
January 19, 2009

NATO’s Double Standards Make for a Hollow Alliance

The military alliance is only as strong and effective as its weakest links
Alexander Melikishvili
January 26, 2009

Gaza Explosions Reverberate in Europe

Devastation in Gaza reignites passion in Europe about Israel, Palestine and Muslim integration in the continent
Shada Islam
January 23, 2009

Why Iran Seeks Nuclear Weapons

Mere talk of nuclear weapons serves as a shield for Tehran
Arch Roberts Jr.
January 8, 2009

A Scheme to Encrypt the Entire Web Is Actually Working

But news sites are not on board with encryption
Andy Greenberg
April 21, 2016

Refugees and the “Globalization of Indifference”

Globalization of awareness and concern may entail tackling root causes of tragedy before it begins
Uri Friedman
April 20, 2016

Everyone Says the Libya Intervention Was a Failure: They’re Wrong

Some interventions must proceed even when chances are slim that stability will follow
Shadi Hamid
April 15, 2016

Out of Africa

Climate change adds to desertification, migration, conflicts and extremism
Thomas L. Friedman
April 14, 2016

After Chibok, Another Kidnapping Met With Silence

More than 2 million people have been displaced
Aminu Abubakar and Robyn Dixon
April 13, 2016