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.

Iranian Embassy Denies Dress Code

Doubts emerge about dress code for Iran
Chris Wattie
May 11, 2006

If This Is Ahmadinejad’s Bluff, It Is Bluff Worth Calling

The US should respond to Ahmadinejad’s letter, however strange it may be
Simon Jenkins
May 15, 2006

The Demise of the NPT: New Players in the Proliferation Game

More nations clamor for nuclear power and increase the challenges of nonproliferation
Chua Hearn Yuit
May 16, 2006

Afghanistan: The Long Road Ahead

US confronts an array of challenges, from drug production to interference from Iran
Richard Holbrooke
April 3, 2006

How Not to Fight Terrorism

The US government owes citizens more substance and less bluster in the war on terror
David Cole
May 9, 2006