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 Korean Crisis: Kim’s Dangerous Game

Belligerence could signal internal political troubles or danger of coup
Evan Osnos
April 2, 2013

No Shift in Iran's Nuclear Behavior, Despite Sanctions

Sanctions may have strengthened leaders' resolve
Joby Warrick, Anne Gearan
March 21, 2013

EU Fails to Speak With One Voice on Syria

Polarization dulls EU influence
Joshua Chaffin
March 19, 2013

US Demands China Block Cyberattacks

Could the Chinese military be acting on its own, crossing official Chinese policy?
Mark Landler, David E. Sanger
March 13, 2013

Kim Blows Up Again

Tensions run high; new leaders add to risks of miscalculations near the Korean Peninsula
March 8, 2013