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.

Immigration Reform and National Security

Movement towards consistent and stable immigration reform policies for Mexican workers in U.S. impeded by border security concerns
Tamar Jacoby
September 16, 2002

Smuggler’s Plot Highlights Fear Over Uranium

Terrorists have access to plenty of leftover weapons from the Cold War era
Lawrence Scott Sheets
January 26, 2007

Turning Colder

Russia’s relations with the West cool off once more
February 13, 2007

Flexing Muscle, China Destroys Satellite in Test

Test could foreshadow a space race or prod the US into entering a space-weapons ban
William J. Broad
January 22, 2007

With Iran Ascendant, US Is Seen at Fault

Arab nations worry about Iran’s growing influence in the Middle East and the spread of sectarian conflict
Anthony Shadid
January 31, 2007