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.

Painful Price of Forging a Democratic Era

The struggle for political reform turns deadly in Libya
Roula Khalaf
March 11, 2011

New Migrants Flock to Italy, Intensifying Immigration Debate

Harsh Italian policies targeting North African immigrants spur activism and calls for human rights
Elisa Cozzarini
March 1, 2011

Libyan Arms Deals Come Back to Haunt Europe

Defense manufacturers overlooked that brutal dictators might use weapons on unarmed citizens
David Böcking
February 25, 2011

Revolution U

The internet may trigger revolutionary thought, but planning determines success
Tina Rosenberg
February 24, 2011

China to Block UN Report on North Korean Nuclear Capability

China stands by North Korea, despite its uranium enrichment program that violates UN sanctions
February 21, 2011