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.

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

Can You Tell a Sunni From a Shiite?

US officials in charge of counterterrorism display ignorance about history of Islam and the nature of the conflict in Iraq
Jeff Stein
October 26, 2006

Pakistan's Awkward Balancing Act on Islamic Militant Groups

Pakistan is polarized when it comes to defining or fighting terrorists
Pamela Constable
August 30, 2006

Muslim Myopia

Foreign policy might motivate some radicals, but the West is hardly alone in committing violence against Muslims
Irshad Manji
August 25, 2006