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.

How US Policy Responses Are Helping, Hurting and Can Be Improved

Programs to curb drug trafficking in Latin America are effective, but institutional reforms are needed, too
Cristina Eguizábal, Karise M. Curtis, Matthew C. Ingram, Aaron Korthuis, Eric L. Olson and Nicholas Phillips
January 30, 2015

As Yemen’s Government Falls, So May a US Strategy for Fighting Terror

Sunni-Shia divide makes Yemen a fragile partner in war on extremism
Mark Thompson
January 22, 2015

Charlie Hebdo Attack Spurs EU Anti-Terror Projects

To stem extremism, EU focuses on security and language programs with Arab partners
January 20, 2015

Terror Attacks Cannot Save Islam's “Honor”

Terror is not an act of courage or faith
Husain Haqqani
January 13, 2015

Drone Patrols on US Border Ineffective, Report Finds

Military-grade equipment for border patrols may be expensive overkill
Jack Nicas
January 7, 2015