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.

A Question for the Global Community

National governments can endanger their own integrity by ignoring or squashing minority complaints
Rachel Clogg
August 14, 2008

What Bush Got Right

Leaders are wise to save time and take advantage of any successful endeavors of their predecessors
Fareed Zakaria
August 18, 2008

US Situation in Iraq and Afghanistan

McCain: "Victory must be our only exit strategy."
John McCain
November 5, 2003

Iraq Said to Have Tried to Reach Last-Minute Deal to Avert War

Washington wouldn't hear of it, says Pentagon advisor
James Risen
November 6, 2003

What Does America Mean by Democracy in Iraq?

A weekly review of Arab press commentary
Salamander Davoudi
November 7, 2003