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.

Dhaka Arrests Activists After Cinema Deaths

Bangladesh is reluctant to admit that Al Qaeda may be to blame for recent acts of terrorism within the country.
Alastair Lawson-Tancred
December 9, 2002

The New New World Order

Any shift in world power creates new winners and losers
Daniel W. Drezner
March 15, 2007

North Korea Clarifies Statement on A-Bomb

With the clarification of one syllable, North Korea changes its position from possessing nuclear weapons to entitling itself to possessing nuclear weapons.
Howard W. French
November 19, 2002

Iran: Bad Tactics or Good Strategy?

International demands could prompt defiance from Iran
Yevgeny Primakov
March 20, 2007

What a Howler

Preemption could be an important tool in some situations, but Australia must abide by the UN charter to utilize it.
December 9, 2002