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 Piracy Threat to Japan

Japan may be well-poised to conquer maritime dangers in the Strait of Malacca
March 17, 2005

On NATO's future

A subject of global concern is the transformation now underway in NATO
Mohamed Sid-Ahmed
March 18, 2005

Pyongyang Damps Hope for Nuclear Deal

Is North Korea's recent pronouncement more than mere rhetoric?
Anna Fifield
February 11, 2005

A Question in Blix

Now that terrorism has become an important ingredient in world politics, can the objectives of disarmament be reached?
Mohamed Sid-Ahmed
March 4, 2005

China Doubts US Data on North Korean Nuclear Work

Beijing's tacit answer to pleas for support in dismantling Pyongyang's nuclear program: "No, thank you"
Joseph Kahn
March 7, 2005