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.

Maritime Game-Changer Revealed at Shangri-La Dialogue

China’s surveillance off US coasts may be a security plus
Rory Medcalf
June 6, 2013

Vietnam PM Seeks Regional Unity as China Pushes Maritime Claims

Unilateral might can undermine international law
John O'Callaghan
June 4, 2013

Afghans Nervous as Nawaz Sharif Returns

Will Sharif pursue intervention or trade?
Hafizullah Gardesh, Mina Habib
May 29, 2013

Chinese Hackers Linked to Attack on Australian Spy Agency

The internet is not designed to keep secrets
Neil Hume
May 29, 2013

Syria Crisis: Russia “Sends Sophisticated Weapons”

US counts on Russia as key to ending war
May 20, 2013