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.

Philippine Leader Sounds Alarm on China

Another Asian leader compares territorial claims to aggression prior to World War II
Keith Bradsher
February 5, 2014

The Specter of Mass Killings in Burma

Militant monks who attack religious minorities are giving Buddhism a bad name
Larry Diamond
February 3, 2014

As the World Revolts, The Great Powers Watch

Conflicts are many, and compromise is rare
John Lloyd
February 4, 2014

Why the Ukraine Crisis Should Be a Concern, As We Mark the Centenary of WWI

Political divisions linger throughout Europe
Ailish O'Hora
January 31, 2014

“Snowden Effect” Threatens US Tech Industry's Global Ambitions

Trust in cloud computing may be naiveté
Gerry Smith
January 28, 2014