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.

Cooler Heads Need to Convey Japan’s Message

Petty tit-for-tat exchanges are irresponsible for global leaders
Sadaaki Numata
March 20, 2014

Ukraine: Goodbye Cold War, Hello Globalized Economy

The battle is no longer among ideologues but among the wealthy
Remi Piet
March 18, 2014

The New Ukraine: Inside Kiev's House of Cards

Corruption won’t vanish overnight
Christian Neef, Wladimir Pyljow and Matthias Schepp
March 6, 2014

Russian Markets Plunge as Putin Tightens Crimea Grip

War over Ukraine would exact hard financial hit for Russia, the US, the EU
Lidia Kelly and Alissa de Carbonnel
March 4, 2014