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.

Whither Africa Avenue?

A fractious Africa holds the keys to India’s entry to the UN Security Council
V. Sudarshan
June 20, 2005

A Moment to Seize with North Korea

Kim Jong-il's recent statement presents a "golden opportunity" for the Bush administration to reopen negotiations
Donald Gregg
June 22, 2005

A Revolution in American Nuclear Policy

Though the "nuclear option" has fizzled, a more pressing alternative has emerged: "global strike"
Jonathan Schell
May 27, 2005

Slow-Motion Reunification

While the Bush administration hopes for a North Korean collapse, South Korea seeks economic integration and reunification
John Feffer
June 9, 2005

Terrorism and the Computer

Today's technology produces global connections that make acts of terrorism easier than ever to organize and execute
Mohamed Sid-Ahmed
April 26, 2005