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.

Was Spy Murdered in Russian Power Fight?

Former KGB spy’s deathbed accusation reverberates around the globe
November 27, 2006

White House Cool to North Korean Offer of Talks

Nuclear weapons program damages US-North Korea relationship.
Reuters
October 21, 2002

Bush Sets Defense as Space Priority

President Bush moves toward militarizing the final frontier, denying access to anyone “hostile” to US interests
Marc Kaufman
October 18, 2006

The “Secret Plan” Ploy

US Republicans hope that a plan for Iraq might convince voters to give them yet another chance to control Congress
Walter Wells
October 20, 2006

Perilous Journeys: The Plight of North Koreans in China and Beyond

The international community’s neglect of North Korea’s humanitarian crisis exacerbates the standoff over nuclear weaponry
October 27, 2006