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 Force of Special Forces

The US military can tackle highly specific targets and save money, too
Lawrence Korb
May 10, 2011

In Arab World, Bin Laden’s Confused Legacy

Recent Middle East uprisings didn’t rely on Osama bin Laden’s extremist tactics or philosophy
Anthony Shadid, David D. Kirkpatrick
May 2, 2011

Ai Weiwei's Incarceration Stumps German Culture Vultures

China boosts Ai Weiwei’s international acclaim with detention and censorship
Aya Bach
May 2, 2011

Palestinian Unity Raises New Problems as It Solves Others

For Fatah and Hamas, setting up a government is a priority over external affairs
David E. Miller
April 30, 2011

What the Guantanamo Leaks Won't Reveal

Guantánamo secrets, showing US intelligence inadequacies, are just the tip of an iceberg
Darryl Li
April 27, 2011