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.

Bin Laden Material Found at Alleged Bali Mastermind's House

Investigators find evidence of Al Qaeda connection in the Bali blast
November 25, 2002

F.B.I. to Open Liaison Office in Beijing, Ashcroft Says

The US and China find new ways to encourage friendship – through crime-fighting.
Elisabeth Rosenthal
October 24, 2002

Shades of Cambodia

The US president ignores advice to engage Iraq’s neighbors, singling them out as the main source of chaos in the region, and threatens action
Harold Meyerson
January 12, 2007

Kenya's Muslims: Resentments Both Local and International

Anti-Israeli attacks in Kenya could have easily found local support
Dexter Filkins
December 1, 2002

Preemptive Strikes

February 6, 2003