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.

US Said to Shift Approach in Talks With North Korea

Instead of disarming ahead of talks Pyongyang is asked to take small steps while the US gradually lifts sanctions and provides aid.
David E. Sanger
September 5, 2003

After Bush

The Bush presidency has some loose ends on foreign policy
March 27, 2008

Korea: The Hexagon of Uncertainty

Though North Korea threatened to test a nuclear weapon, negotiations with the country made significant headway.
Francesco Sisci
August 30, 2003

Anti-Immigrant Terror in South Africa

Inequality leads to a downward cycle of poverty, resentment and violence
Megan Lindow
May 21, 2008

Iraq Deal With US to End Immunity for Foreign Contractors

An agreement still being ironed out suggests that the US is in no hurry to leave
Patrick Cockburn
June 18, 2008