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.

If Australia Wants to Avoid Regional Turmoil, It Needs to Turn to ASEAN

Unity is key to regional peace
John Blaxland
August 8, 2014

Clashes With Russia Point to Globalization's End

Sanctions turn trade into a weapon
Mark Leonard
August 7, 2014

Anti-Semitism Rises in Europe Amid Israel-Gaza Conflict

Extreme hate speech is too common
Melissa Eddy
August 5, 2014

The World Cannot Afford a Cold War

Russia and the West expect other nations to choose sides
Nayan Chanda
August 4, 2014

The Social Laboratory

Singapore tries surveillance to achieve harmony – but whose version?
Shane Harris
August 4, 2014