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.

Kremlin Puts Foreign NGO’s on Notice

International criticism targets Russia after the government closes offices of Human Rights Watch, Doctors Without Borders and others
C.J. Chivers
October 24, 2006

US and China Urge North Korea to Return to Talks

A time of crisis challenges any nation that tries to go it alone
Thom Shanker
October 20, 2006

N. Korea Links Next Move to U.S. Policy

More tests may be conducted if US continues "hostile attitude"
Choe Sang-Hun
October 11, 2006

Spy Agencies Say Iraq War Hurting US Terror Fight

US intelligence agencies concede that the Iraq invasion backfired by boosting recruitment of terrorists
Karen DeYoung
September 25, 2006

Musharraf Denies Helping Al Qaeda

The Pakistani president insists he is a friend to Great Britain, not terrorists
Kim Sengupta
September 29, 2006