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.

U.S. Probes Banks’ North Korea Ties

Investigation into North Korean shenanigans risks roiling US-China relations
Glenn R. Simpson
September 9, 2005

Shared Pasts, Different Futures

A look at China's history adds perspective to the actions of today's terrorists
Abdel-Moneim Said
August 19, 2005

Searching For Justice

The concluding session of the World Tribunal on Iraq (WTI) recently held in Istanbul was an exercise in articulating the principles of international law
Khaled Fahmy
July 29, 2005

Mixed Signals

After bombings in Egypt, one question lingers: How will the globalization of terrorism affect tourism?
Rehab Saad
August 1, 2005

Terrorists Turn to the Web as Base of Operations

As internet technology evolves and accessibility increases, al-Qaida's tactics adapt accordingly
Steven Coll
August 8, 2005