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.

Israeli Settlement Plan Sparks International Outrage

Israel stubbornly plans settlements on occupied land, defying international law
Harriet Sherwood
November 11, 2010

Fighting Terrorism in Yemen Requires Patience and Partners

Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations have good reason to stabilize Yemen
November 10, 2010

The £1 Billion Hostage Trade

Big payouts for hostages transform kidnapping into global industry
Esme McAvoy, David Randall
November 9, 2010

Iraq War Logs: UN Calls on Obama to Investigate Human Rights Abuses

Wikileaks exposes consequences of the Iraq invasion
David Batty, Jamie Doward
October 25, 2010

Amid Tension, China Blocks Vital Exports to Japan

China subtly leverages its monopoly on rare-earth minerals to pressure Japan
Keith Bradsher
September 24, 2010