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.

The World as Free-Fire Zone

More than 80 countries have hopped on drone bandwagon
Fred Kaplan
July 31, 2013

US Urged to Adopt Policy Justifying Intervention

Syria may be case for “responsibility to protect”
Mark Landler
July 25, 2013

Phone-Tracking Program Defended in US Government Letter

Three branches of government monitor the program
Larry Neumeister
July 23, 2013

India’s NSA Announces Cybersecurity Cooperation With Private Sector

India suggests that government can’t work alone
July 22, 2013

The Arab Spring: Has It Failed?

Democracy is a work in progress
July 16, 2013