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.

An Alliance Without a Strategy

Lacking collective will, a bickering NATO reacts to crises on a case-by-case basis
Jörg Himmelreich
April 26, 2011

How the US Intends to End War with Taliban

Gradual exit, regional cooperation and a well-crafted political strategy could deliver peace
Ahmed Rashid
April 21, 2011

How a Persian Gulf Backwater Became an International Power Broker

Qatar steps onto the world stage – to preserve its sovereignty
Sonia Verma
April 20, 2011

NATO's Last Mission?

A formidable alliance is one of equals, with a common sense of purpose
Fred Kaplan
April 19, 2011

The War on Soft Power

The US budget deal could weaken the nation’s global influence
Joseph S. Nye Jr.
April 19, 2011