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.

Tension Highlights North Korea’s Limitations

South Korea refuses to panic over North’s provocations, turns on border loudspeakers to secure agreement on peace talks
Shim Jae Hoon
August 25, 2015

Temperatures in the South China Sea Continue to Rise

Chinese military drills in South China Sea, as ASEAN convenes on code of conduct, send unsettling message
Gregory Poling
August 6, 2015

Backed by Big Powers, a Successful Iran Deal Could Rescue NPT

China, Russia and the United States must cooperate on strengthening barriers against the spread of nuclear weapons
Richard Weitz
July 16, 2015

Challenge of “Recent-ism” in the Middle East

Al Qaeda and ISIL have more similarities than differences; strategic counterterrorism efforts must be applied
Alexander Evans
June 25, 2015

The New Ukrainian Exceptionalism

Ukrainian leaders, under siege from Russian and separatist forces, resist constructive criticism
Matthew Rojansky and Mykhailo Minakov
June 23, 2015

Modi’s Visit to China Marks New Tone, But No Concrete Progress

During a trip to China, India’s Prime Minister Modi wins publicity points, but fails to narrow strategic differences
Neelam D Sabharwal
June 16, 2015