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.

China “Monitored” US Bombers in New Air Zone

Unannounced flights of unarmed B-52s test the zone
Jonny Dymond
November 27, 2013

LG Investigates Smart TV “Unauthorised Spying” Claim

Many TV owners don’t know about privacy settings
Leo Kelion
November 27, 2013

Merkel Says Spy Scandal Is Testing EU-US Trade Talks

Trade partnerships and spying do not mix well
Stefan Wagstyl
November 27, 2013

WikiLeaks Publishes Secret Draft Chapter of Trans-Pacific Partnership

Critics question the need for secrecy
Alex Hern, Dominic Rushe
November 21, 2013

Risky Business: Talking to the Taliban

Peace talks would need tough pre-conditions
Paula Newberg
November 18, 2013