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.

This Is Not Only a French Crisis - All of Europe Must Heed the Flames

Because Europe’s much-vaunted multi-culturalism is showing cracks
Timothy Garton Ash
November 10, 2005

Censuring the U.S. Gave Jordan No Security

Can Arabs turn to the US for help against US-bred violence?
Rami G. Khouri
November 14, 2005

U.S. faces challenges on three fronts

America's current dominant position risks being pushed aside if it does not address imminent challenges
Kwon Ji-young
October 14, 2005

China's Color-Coded Crackdown

The recent democratic revolutions in Eastern Europe have Beijing worried
Yongding
October 18, 2005

Terrorism and Oil

Can the new surge in oil revenues help overcome poverty and defeat terrorism?
Mohamed Sid-Ahmed
October 24, 2005