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.

Russian Court Backs Closing of Chechen Rights Group

Government closes friendship society that supports Chechen causes
Peter Finn
January 25, 2007

Unmanned U.S. Planes Comb Arabian Desert for Suspects

The war on terror moves to Yemen's deserts.
Neil MacFarquhar
October 23, 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

Revisiting the Debate on America's Pro-Israel Lobby

Attacks on the truth by extremists only prompt support for their opponents
Rami G. Khouri
December 14, 2006

As New Tape Is Evaluated, Bush Calls Qaeda Threat Real

The White House re-confirms the Al Qaeda threat as the Bin Laden tape is checked for authenticity.
James Risen
November 14, 2002