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.

US-Russia Effort to Contain Nuclear Experts Fades

Without some last-minute diplomacy, a hiring program for Russian nuclear scientists will expire
Fred Weir
September 22, 2006

The Never-Ending Myanmar Nightmare

Refugee crisis escalates as military regime sells nation’s wealth to control and monitor Burmese people
Daniel Pepper
September 30, 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

Saving the World, One Video Game at a Time

Designers develop new games to teach the strategies of peace
Clive Thompson
July 23, 2006