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.

UK Fears Record Afghan Heroin Output

An Afghanistan province has the potential this year to produce a record-breaking poppy crop
Declan Walsh
June 13, 2006

Islam and the West

The intricate relationship between West and Islam can take one of two directions – destruction or cooperation
June 8, 2006

Washington’s Tactical Error in Somalia

US needs to be careful about its partners in the war on terror
Jen Alic
June 17, 2006

Our Failure in Somalia

Funding a working government in Somalia, rather than warlords, could create a real partner in the US war on terror
John Prendergast
June 20, 2006

Mexico Worries About Its Own Southern Border

Angst about illegal immigration does not stop at the US border
Ginger Thompson
June 15, 2006