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.

Reining in China's Ambitions

The US takes steps to balance claims on the South China Sea
Daniel Blumenthal
July 28, 2010

In Afghanistan, a Threat of Plunder

Under poor governance, a bonanza of natural resources may only bring misery
Paul Collier
July 21, 2010

McChrystal Tests Obama’s Priorities

McChrystal, no longer leading war in Afghanistan, ignites scrutiny
David Sanger
June 23, 2010

Kyrgyzstan Falls Apart: Can Democracy Work in Central Asia?

In pursuit of power, leaders in Central Asia fail to provide security
Benjamin Bidder, Matthias Schepp
June 22, 2010

The Burma-North Korea Axis

Global powers cannot neglect ongoing “military megalomania” and deceit
Aung Lynn Htut
June 18, 2010