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.

China, Russia Seek to Profit as the EU Beacon of Democracy Goes Dim

The EU – divided over debt, entitlements and refugees – confronts authoritarian politics at home and from afar
Humphrey Hawksley
April 5, 2016

Europe Must Adapt to a Dangerous World

Economic clout alone does not protect Europe; EU leaders must project influence abroad to shape the international system
Daniel Twining
March 29, 2016

Missing the Big Picture, US Policy on North Korea Could Bring Disaster

The US is overwhelmed with global challenges, North Korea or South China Sea, and fails to connect long-term strategy dots
Paul Bracken
March 8, 2016

Russia: Only Tactical Success in the Middle East

Russia needs good ties with the West more than short-term gains in Ukraine and Syria
Thomas Graham
March 1, 2016

Sunnylands or Rancho Mirage? ASEAN and the South China Sea

ASEAN, with its timid stance on the South China Sea, risks irrelevance and Chinese dominance
Donald K. Emmerson
February 23, 2016

However Annoying, Failure to Engage Russia Is Not an Option

A strategic objective in engaging Russia must emphasize the profitability of balanced foreign policy in bridging East and West
Jochen Prantl
February 16, 2016