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.

Denmark Secretly Evacuates Iraqi Aides From Basra

Despite its own strict immigration policies, Denmark offers asylum to interpreters
Fred Attewill
July 24, 2007

With New Technology, US Tries Out New Way to Make War

New technologies aim to hit military and political targets.
Joseph Fitchett
March 24, 2003

When Democracy Goes Bad

Democracy may not eliminate all corruption, but it empowers the public to detect problems and find solutions
Gwynne Dyer
August 3, 2007

U.S. Search for Illegal Arms Narrowed to About 36 Sites

No weapons of mass destruction found yet.
Don Van Natta Jr.
April 14, 2003

Ocean Explorers Plant Russian Flag on Arctic Sea Floor

Russia challenges Canada’s claim to the North Pole, but accessing territory does not necessarily prove ownership
Randy Boswell
August 3, 2007