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.

Myanmar, North Korea Stay Brothers in Arms

China and the US won’t let Myanmar be friends with all
Bertil Lintner
September 24, 2013

China Intensifies Internet Crackdown

Online criticism of the government equals defamation
Jamil Anderlini
September 16, 2013

Can Iran, Victim of Chemical Weapons, Help Fix the Syria Crisis?

Iran’s new president could instigate diplomacy
Karl Vick
September 13, 2013

A Syrian Lesson for India

Water shortages, climate change are security threats
Nayan Chanda
September 11, 2013

Russia Issues International Travel Advisory to Its Hackers

The US has online surveillance tools to catch hackers
Kevin Poulsen
September 10, 2013