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.

N Korea 'Admits' Nuclear Weapons Programme

One member of the 'Axis of Evil' is a little more dangerous than many knew.
Andrew Ward
October 17, 2002

Without International Support, Lebanon May Go Under

Political stability – the ability of citizens to live with some rules they may not like – crumbles in the Middle East
Nizar Abdel-Kader
December 4, 2006

Urgent Worries About Pakistani Nuclear Material

North Korean-Pakistan link established months ago.
Nayan Chanda
October 18, 2002

Iraqi Civil War Shrinks US Options

As thousands die and flee sectarian violence, US leaders do little more than squabble about civil war and blame
Trudy Rubin
December 4, 2006

US Takes Place of Saddam as Saudi 'Threat'

Fears of US domination of the Middle East run deep.
Roula Khalaf
October 20, 2002