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.

The FBI Used the Web’s Favorite Hacking Tool to Unmask Tor Users

Skill of investigators is advancing fast
Kevin Poulson
December 29, 2014

Sony Fights Against Hackers, Who Threaten Violence at Theaters Playing “The Interview”

Theaters may back off from showing film in global spotlight
Cecilia Kang, Andrea Peterson and Ellen Nakashima
December 22, 2014

US Standing in the Middle East

Invasion of Iraq accelerated the country’s decline
Immanuel Wallerstein
December 22, 2014

India: Bengaluru Man Confesses to Managing Islamic State Twitter Account

Extremists recruit on social media, and investigators collect evidence
Vasudevan Sridharan
December 18, 2014

Pakistan Taliban: Peshawar School Attack Leaves 135 Dead

The attack on schoolchildren could strengthen Pakistan’s resolve to fight religious extremism
Aamer Ahmed Khan
December 16, 2014