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.

Africa’s Jihadists, On Their Way

Extremism flourishes amid poor governance
August 1, 2014

A Humanitarian Catastrophe Unfolds in Gaza

The conflict hits Gaza children
Julia Amalia Heyer
July 31, 2014

Personal Privacy Is Only One of the Costs of NSA Surveillance

Spying undermines global trust in US products
Kim Zitter
July 30, 2014

Crises Cascade and Converge, Testing Obama

Critics advice? More tough talk, weapons or “equipment” for one side or the other
Peter Baker
July 23, 2014