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.

U.S. Sending 2 Dozen Bombers in Easy Range of North Koreans

Even before North Korea threatened American spy planes this weekend, the American government had ordered two dozen bombers to within attack range of Pyongyang.
David E. Sanger
March 5, 2003

India Asked to Join Central Asian Grouping

Kazakhstan is building a lasting friendship with India: supporting India’s admission into the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and permanent membership in the U.N. Security Council.
Atunl Aneja
February 13, 2002

Powell fails to win over China on two hot spots

"On North Korea, Beijing does not back a call for a multilateral approach. On Iraq, it does not endorse military action."
Goh Sui Noi
February 25, 2003

Running Out of Time in Iraq

As Baghdad crumbles in sectarian violence, more deadlines and demands for progress emerge for the US
David Ignatius
May 15, 2007

The U.S. and the End of WMD Regimes

Is it fear of weapons of mass destruction or political gamesmanship that drives the Bush administration’s foreign policy?
Shireen M. Mazari
February 26, 2003