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.

Up to 21 Dead, Doctor Says, As Anti-China Riots Spread in Vietnam

More than 450 factories report damage
May 15, 2014

Why There Is No Stopping Boko Haram

Nigeria, international community struggle to put a stop to religious extremism
Gayatri Chandrasekaran
May 12, 2014

China Flexes Its Muscles in Dispute With Vietnam

Both nations deploy vessels to the Paracels in the South China Sea
Jane Perlez and Rick Gladstone
May 9, 2014

Obama's Japan Visit and US-Japan-China Relations: A Missed Opportunity for Conflict Prevention

US president should have reined in Prime Minister Abe
Mel Gurtov
May 5, 2014

Antibiotic Resistance Threatens Everyone, WHO Warns

Some diseases adapt quickly, resist strongest antibiotics
May 5, 2014