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.

Police Arrest Key Mcdonald's Bomb Suspect

Bali bombers and McDonald's culprits may be the same, but links still unclear.
December 11, 2002

Terrorist Networks Lure Young Moroccans to War in Far-Off Iraq

Extremist recruiting networks are active throughout North Africa and Spain
Craig Whitlock
February 20, 2007

After NATO's Year of Identity Crisis, a Defining Meeting

With an upcoming meeting in Prague, NATO must redefine its purpose to meet the new challenges of the twenty-first century.
Steven Erlanger
November 4, 2002

Taking It to the Brink

Weak states like North Korea gain more by taking a tough stance than do powerful nations like the US
Daniel Sneider
March 1, 2007

Unmanned Weapon Makes Its Mark in Yemen

War on Terror launches new unmanned air vehicle (UAV) that kills al-Qaeda fugitive in Yemen.
Mark Huband
November 5, 2002