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.

What Germany Owes Ukraine

Reticence for military confrontation may be a legacy of WWII
James Kirchick
February 16, 2015

The Future of Force

Globalization’s rapid advance may have eliminated rules of war
Joseph S. Nye
February 11, 2015

Social Media Becomes Lifeline for Civilians Under Fire in Ukraine

Users seek news of relatives and battle reports
Paul Sonne
February 9, 2015

The Fight Against ISIS After the Death of Jordan’s Pilot

Condemnation from Muslims is essential to end atrocities committed in the name of Islam
Aaron David Miller
February 6, 2015

A Tipping Point for Japan’s Foreign Policy

Islamic State extremist beheads respected Japanese journalist
David Pilling
February 2, 2015