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.

Negotiation Offers Hope in Nuclear Containment

North Korea really wants: an economic aid package from the US.
Daniel Sneider
February 16, 2003

Trading Civil War for Small-Town Sweden

Refugees of Iraqi war welcome the boredom of small-town life, yet yearn to help their struggling nation
Charles Hawley
May 29, 2007

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

Talk to Foreigners and We Will View You as a Spy, Iran Warns Academics

Governments that threaten academic freedom lack confidence in their way of life
Robert Tait
June 4, 2007

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