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.

Linked Global Groups Are Not Political Parties: Hizb ut-Tahrir and the Fantasy of the Caliphate

Islamists should strive for good local governance before forming the caliphate
Jean-Pierre Filiu
June 3, 2008

Why America Still Can't Find Osama bin Laden

Western Pakistan remains ungovernable and impenetrable.
David Rohde
September 14, 2003

Networks, Olympics Organizers Clash

Chinese restrictions on the media could produce an invisible Olympics show
Stephen Wade
June 16, 2008

Ability to Reason Vital in Fighting Terrorism

UN Secretary-General calls for cooperation and for cool heads to prevail in war on terror
Kofi Annan
September 23, 2003

With Olympics Approaching, US Reconsiders Sonic Blasters for China

Protesters attending the Beijing Olympics should plan on packing earplugs
Daniel Pepper
June 10, 2008