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.

Tears and Destruction Amid Turkey PKK Crackdown

The US and the EU suggest that Turkey focus on battling the Islamic State
Mark Lowen
January 27, 2016

Opening a New Front Against ISIS in Libya

Intervention could rally extremists, destabilize neighbors and spur a new kind of Arab Spring
January 26, 2016

Flint's Lead Problem Extreme Example of Chronic Global Problem

Lead poisoning is preventable; WHO reports about 143,000 deaths each year
Carolyn Beeler
January 25, 2016

Charsadda Attack: It Is Time to Ask Pakistan Army Some Hard Questions

Military investments may offer diminishing returns
Umer Ali
January 20, 2016

The World Is Hemorrhaging Methane, and Now We Can See Where

Thousands of sites around the globe intentionally flare off and waste methane
Christina Nunez
January 19, 2016