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.

Nigeria Counts 100 Deaths over Danish Caricatures

Cartoon violence reveals long-held grudges
Lydia Polgreen
February 27, 2006

Enlightened Independence

India sides with the majority against Iran for good reason
Arundhati Ghose
February 15, 2006

Iran Plays Growing Role in Iraq, Complicating Bush’s Strategy

Iran exerts a strong influence on post-war Iraq
Jay Solomon
February 16, 2006

US Ceded Control of Ports

Global economic reality suggests that US ports cannot operate without foreign companies
William Glanz
February 28, 2006

India: Pro-America, Pro-Bush

Poll shows Indians buck the global trend and support the US
March 1, 2006