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.

North Korea: Nuclear Bomb Fuel Plants Restarted

Old pattern: North Korea acts up with weapons for attention and aid
September 22, 2015

Putin’s Plan: Moscow Handles Syria, US Looks After Iraq

The United States and Russia may not see eye to eye on how to combat the Islamic State
Raghida Dergham
September 21, 2015

China Wins the Gray Zone by Default

But the world loses from reduced cooperation on the most pressing global challenges
Denny Roy
September 18, 2015

Defiant Chinese Admiral’s Message: South China Sea “Belongs to China”

Admiral also points out that the US and China are working on a code of conduct to avoid conflicts
Marcus Weisgerber
September 16, 2015

The King and ISIS

Saudi Arabia performs juggling act, promoting Wahhabism while combatting terrorism
Daniel Benjamin
September 15, 2015