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.

Why Pope Francis’s Peace Plan Won't Pay Off

Can the Vatican prevail where Washington has failed?
Benny Avni
May 29, 2014

China’s Cyberespionage Presents a 21st-Century Challenge

Corporations and citizens have been put on notice
Fareed Zakaria
May 23, 2014

A Calibrated Takeover of the South China Sea

Preoccupied international community overlooks China’s moves in the South China Sea
Nayan Chanda
May 22, 2014

US Tech Firms Could Feel Backlash in China After Hacking Indictments

China is expected to retaliate on trade, diplomacy and maritime claims
Paul Mozur and Carlos Tejada
May 21, 2014

US, India’s Goals Diverge in New Delhi’s Near Abroad

Small countries prefer keeping their options open, dealing with all big powers
Nilanthi Samaranayake
May 20, 2014