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.

Europe's Deadly Borders: An Inside Look at EU's Shameful Immigration Policy

Thousands risk lives to flee conflicts; patrols struggle with rescues
Maximilian Popp
September 16, 2014

Wider Strategy Needed to Deal With Terrorists

Only a united coalition can tackle instability and other root causes of terrorism
Mohammed Fahad Al-Harthi
September 12, 2014

Obama's Legal Rationale for ISIS Strikes

Obama relies on 2001 authorization on 9/11 attackers to attack Islamic State
Spencer Ackerman
September 11, 2014

Longtime Rivals Look to Team Up to Confront ISIS

United effort could defeat terrorist group that thrives on conflict and power vacuums
Tim Arango
September 11, 2014

China's Island Factory

Nations bordering the South China Sea go great lengths to establish claims
Rupert Wingfield-Hayes
September 9, 2014