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.

British Law Against Glorifying Terrorism Has Not Silenced Calls to Kill for Islam

Websites urging extremism and violence flourish in the UK
Souad Mekhennet
August 21, 2006

A Self-Defeating War

Those who engage in a “war on terror” escalate fear, hatred and violence – and only defeat themselves
George Soros
August 16, 2006

9/11: Historic Turning Point, or Bump in the Road?

Historians need many years to understand the full repercussions of 9/11, the Iraq invasion and other so-called “turning points” of history
Brendan Simms
September 11, 2006

Drop the “War on Terrorism” Metaphor

US strategy for preventing terrorism is flawed
Richard N. Haass
August 17, 2006

Turkey Toughs Out Terror

Measured reaction to separatist attacks another sign of the country’s maturity
September 14, 2006