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.

Getting Real About China

For global influence, the US and China must focus on their own reforms
Wesley K. Clark
October 20, 2014

Conflicts Disrupt Schooling Across Region

Millions of children without an education and are vulnerable to extremism and poverty
Haytham Nuri
October 15, 2014

As ISIS Take Kobane, NATO's Second Largest Army Sits on the Sidelines

Refusal to help Kurdish town is aid for the Islamic State
Alexander Christie-Miller
October 8, 2014

Muslim Pilgrims Begin Hajj Pilgrimage

Saudi Arabia on alert for Ebola, MERS and Islamic State extremists
October 8, 2014

Jihadists Leverage Social Media to Condemn US-Led Airstrikes

Those who behead are suddenly upset about airstrikes and civilian deaths
Matthew Hillburn
October 3, 2014