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.

Hacking Made Easy

Sophisticated computer programs track keystrokes and harvest valuable personal information from unwary computer users
Brian Krebs
March 17, 2006

The Arab Connection to Chechen Conflict

By ignoring the Chechen conflict, the international community invites Islamic extremists to the region
Faryal Leghari
March 21, 2006

Port Deal: Not a Foreign Idea

Foreign firms already run most container terminals in US
Laura Meckler
March 10, 2006

Arab Firms Reassessing US Holdings

European or Asian firms could benefit from ports controversy, while Arab investors may lobby to improve image in US
Jim Krane
March 10, 2006

Saudi Oil Facilities: Al Qaeda’s Next Target?

A strike on the world’s largest oil facilities could devastate global economy
John C.K. Daly
March 7, 2006