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.

Shiite-Sunni Conflict Rises in Pakistan

Analysts fear that sectarian strife could spread beyond the Middle East
David Montero
February 6, 2007

Arab Perspective: The Chechen Issue That Cries for Solution

Terrorist act in Moscow only exacerbates regional conflict; resolution urgently needed
Huda Fawzi
November 1, 2002

America in Africa: Addressing a Mix of Islam and Oil

Reduced US aid for education and health care in Africa threatens national security
Ricardo Rene Laremont
February 6, 2007

Voices on Tape Portrayed as Bin Laden’s Praises Recent Attacks

Osama Bin Laden’s voice caught on tape may mean that he is still alive.
David Stout
November 12, 2002

Traffic Cop in an Unsettled Region

The House of Saud has yet to decide its own role for promoting peace in the Middle East
Bernhard Zand
February 7, 2007