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.

Panel Urges Curbs on US Surveillance

The borders on foreign or domestic endeavors are no longer distinct
Ellen Nakashima, Ashkan Soltani
December 19, 2013

UN Makes Record Funding Appeal for Syrian Refugees

The civil war and refugee crisis threaten global security
Barbara Surk
December 18, 2013

NSA Uses Google Cookies to Pinpoint Hacking Targets

Custom ads and cookies leave trail of crumbs for NSA
Ashkan Soltani, Andrea Peterson, Barton Gellman
December 16, 2013

China Loses North Korea Link, But May Welcome Purge

No nation or individual can feel secure over North Korea
December 13, 2013

US Suspends Nonlethal Aid to Syria Rebels

The US struggles to identify moderates in Syria
Michael R. Gordon, Mark Landler, Anne Barnard
December 13, 2013