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.

The True Face of Terror in London and Baghdad

As the world grieves over the attacks in London, the son of an immigrant to the UK offers a unique outlook
Michael Glackin
July 8, 2005

The Changing Face of Al-Qaida: "Outsourcing" Worldwide Terror

The terrorist organization has become less of a unified network and more of an ideology, experts say
The Baltimore Sun
July 11, 2005

Europe's Angry Muslims

In Europe, radical second-generation Muslims bear the dangerous combination of European passports and terrorist loyalties
Robert S. Leiken
July 12, 2005

Russia Eyes Stronger Clout In Caspian Region

Russia seeks a greater role in the Caspian region
Sergei Blagov
July 18, 2005

Politics Intrudes in Bombing Inquiry, Deepening the French-British Rift

The French antiterrorism coordinator leaks false information, freezing European intelligence cooperation just as it is most crucial
Elaine Sciolino
July 18, 2005