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.

Our Good Friends

North Korean issue reveals US as Pakistan's "fair weather friend".
October 20, 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

N. Korea: China echoes U.S. concerns

North Korea's nuclear program worries China, too.
P. S. Suryanarayana
October 23, 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

A Bombshell That's Actually an Olive Branch

What North Korea really wants is better relations with its neighbors and the US.
Leon V. Sigal
October 18, 2002