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.

US Products Help Block Mideast Web

The tech companies that connect also disconnect
Paul Sonne, Steve Stecklow
March 31, 2011

Different Stories

Analysts hunt for patterns in the Arab League’s response to numerous uprisings
Dina Ezzat
March 22, 2011

Europe's Leaders Fear Libya Could Become Next Afghanistan

Libyans and Gaddafi are pawns in the international power game over intervention
March 21, 2011

Holy Smokes! The Saudis are in Bahrain

Troops intervene to stabilize tensions, but could have opposite effect
Rami G. Khouri
March 18, 2011

Last Defense at Troubled Reactors: 50 Japanese Workers

A few do battle for many
Keith Bradsher, Hiroko Tabuchi
March 16, 2011