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.

Getting Beyond Donald Rumsfeld

The 2006 election results may demonstrate the need for integrating the hard power of warfare with the soft power of ideas
Joseph S. Nye
November 20, 2006

China Reshaping Military to Toughen Its Muscle in the Region

The world’s most populous nation is in the process of transforming its military to become a major player in Asian and global affairs.
Craig S. Smith
October 16, 2002

Why Churchill Opposed Torture

US Congress and president forget the old saying, “What goes around comes around”
Niall Ferguson
November 26, 2006

China Filling Void Left by West in UN Peacekeeping

China, once wary of UN interventions, emerges as a reliable peacekeeping force
Colum Lynch
November 27, 2006

Iraq Panel Calls Conditions “Grave and Deteriorating”

With help from countries throughout the Middle East, the US and Iraq can prevent the conflict from sliding into regional chaos
William Branigin
December 6, 2006