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.

Al Qaeda’s New Tactics

Al Qaeda has innovated and diversified its communication and tactics.
Peter Bergen
November 15, 2002

NATO after Riga

NATO struggles to support a weak government in Afghanistan while combating the economy’s heavy reliance on opium production
Joseph S. Nye
December 14, 2006

Startling His Neighbors, Australian Leader Favors First Strikes

Prime Minister Howard calls for a change in international law to deal with terrorist threat.
John Shaw
December 2, 2002

Seeking Iran Intelligence, U.S. Tries Google

Not waiting for the CIA, the US State Department does its own spy work, using Google to locate Iranians tied to nuclear threats
Dafna Linzer
December 15, 2006

The Big Idea: A Doctrine Passes

George Kennan on containment and the Bush doctrine of preemptive self-defense.
Jane Mayer
October 7, 2002