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.

PM's gaffe leaves a hostile Asian audience

Australian doctrine of pre-emption draws flack.
Tom Allard
December 3, 2002

Bangladesh on the Brink

The country of 147 million struggles to retain democracy and stability
C. Christine Fair
February 7, 2007

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

What North Korea Really Wants

North Korea is probably willing to give up nuclear weapons – and it’s up to the US to figure out the price
Robert Carlin
February 8, 2007

Japan's Navy Is Back, and There's No Cause to Be Alarmed

Some of the changes in Asia caused by America's war on terrorism may fade as quickly as the condensation trails of the B-52 bombers over Afghanistan. But one quiet development marks a major turning point: the re-emergence of Japan's naval forces from constitutionally mandated quarantine.
Nayan Chanda
November 22, 2001