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.

Pakistan's Partial War on Terror

Terrorists bite Pakistan’s hand; but will it stop feeding them?
C. Christine Fair
October 15, 2009

Global Crime Networks Cooperate Better Than Police

When crime has no borders, its perpetrators become globalization's “winners”
October 13, 2009

Afghan Peace Needs a Map

One Chinese scholar’s advice to the US: leave Afghanistan
Li Qinggong
October 8, 2009

The Other Ticking Clock in Iran

A tenuous Russian-Iranian arms deal could change the power dynamics in the Middle East
Christian Caryl
October 7, 2009

General's Review Creates Rupture

Questioning the fundamental assumptions of the Afghanistan strategy
Karen DeYoung
September 22, 2009