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 West’s Moral Erosion Has Undermined the War on Terror

World onlookers question unflagging British and US support of Israeli attacks – and the hypocrisy of Western morality
Max Hastings
July 24, 2006

A Poisoned Relationship

A history of mistrust between Israel and the UN challenges any lasting peace in the Middle East
Matthias Gebauer
August 9, 2006

Written Again in British Blood

Continued violence in Afghanistan follows a historical pattern
Ben Macintyre
July 17, 2006

A Fight Against Terrorism – and Disorganization

US government strives for cooperation among multiple competing security agencies
Karen DeYoung
August 9, 2006

The Fighters and the Freeloaders

No one is safe from extremism or rogue nuclear states
Sebastian Mallaby
July 17, 2006