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.

Horn of Africa Braces for Violence in Wake of Somalia's Failed Peace Talks

Islamist fighters converge on the region
Alisha Ryu
November 3, 2006

US Web Archive Is Said to Reveal a Nuclear Primer

International weapons experts raised alarms about US release of “how to” manuals on nuclear and chemical weapons
William J. Broad
November 3, 2006

Islam, Terror and the Second Nuclear Age

What would “The Koran” say about nuclear weapons?
Noah Feldman
November 1, 2006

North Korea Agrees to Return to Nuclear Talks

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

Bush Signs Fence Bill, Pushes Back

The US remains severely divided over immigration policy and how to control borders
Nicole Gaouette
October 27, 2006