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.

Stop Slapping the Allies, Secretary Gates

Why NATO shouldn’t be in Afghanistan
Fred Kaplan
February 26, 2010

In Digital Combat, U.S. Finds No Easy Deterrent

You can’t fight what you can’t see
John Markoff, David E. Sanger, and Thom Shanker
January 27, 2010

Kenya Fishermen See Upside To Pirates: More Fish

Unintended consequences of piracy on the world’s fishery resources
Jason Straziuso
January 13, 2010

Liberals Losing the Battle?

Is Pakistan’s demographic dividend leading to more suicide bombers?
Shahid Kardar
December 11, 2009

Mexico Tightens Security at U.S. Border Crossings

Mexico takes new steps at the border to combat drug violence
Richard Marosi
December 3, 2009