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.

Egypt's Muslims Attend Coptic Christmas Mass, Serving as "Human Shields"

Egyptian Muslims reject extremism and guard Christian services
Yasmine El-Rashidi
January 10, 2011

UN Body Warns of “Food Price Shock”

Inflating prices for food staples is a political challenge for rich and poor nations
Javier Blas
January 7, 2011

Monitoring America

More than 4000 US counterterrorism groups check local citizen activities for internal threats
Dana Priest, William M. Arkin
December 30, 2010

After Disputed Ivory Coast Election, Africa Tries to Break a Bloody Cycle

Too often, African leaders like Gbagbo stay beyond their welcome
Vivienne Walt
December 27, 2010

WikiLeaks Poses Legal Challenges for US Prosecutors

US analysts restricted from reading classified cables easily viewed by foreign counterparts
Kate Woodsome
December 27, 2010