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.

War for Peace? It Worked in My Country

A winner of the Nobel Peace Prize argues for keeping the use of force open as an option against Saddam Hussein.
José Ramos-Horta
February 25, 2003

Asian Giants' Game of Chess in Indian Ocean

South Asia's sea lanes of commerce have growing geostrategic value
Anthony Paul
May 16, 2007

N. Korea Flexes Military Muscle

North Korea's recent missile launch – saber rattling or a routine test?
Seo Hyun-jin
February 27, 2003

Middle East Nuclear-Weapon Free Zone: A Serious Start?

Shedding nuclear weapons could signal confident leadership
René Wadlow
May 16, 2007

An Antiwar Demonstration That Does Not Take to the Streets

Technology gives rise to new forms of protest.
John Tierney
February 26, 2003