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.

Ottoman Ghosts: Turkey in the Middle East

Turkish government carefully balances relations with the West and neighbors throughout the Middle East
Matein Khalid
October 5, 2006

North Korea Agrees to Return to Nuclear Talks

Six-nation talks could resume before the end of 2006
Howard Schneider
November 1, 2006

Al Qaeda's Far-Reaching New Partner

Regional terrorist groups abandon local causes and consolidate into global force
Craig Whitlock
October 5, 2006

America's Double Standard Fuels Crises

With Iraq on shaky ground, the US must learn from its mistakes for dealing with Pyongyang
Ramzy Baroud
October 31, 2006

China's Iron Grip

For a rising China, intimidating dissidents knows no border
Fred Hiatt
October 10, 2006