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. and Russia Still Dominate Arms Market, but World Total Falls

Financial problems in the main buyers, developing countries are a primary reason for the decline
Thom Shanker
August 30, 2004

Countering Terror with an Amnesty: Why It Makes Sense

Why letting Al-Qaeda members go free might help contain Islamic terrorism
Bouchaib Silm
September 15, 2004

The War Was Illegal

In a declaration "shocking in its simplicity," Kofi Annan refutes the case for war
September 17, 2004

Islamic Groups Cautious over Bombing Blame

Enraged by Jakarta suicide bombers who killed and maimed last week, Muslims are cooler on the issue of a religious link
Salim Osman
September 13, 2004

European survivors of 9/11: Torn 2 ways

Caught in the middle of the transatlantic rift, three European survivors of 9/11 discuss their torn allegiances
Katrin Bennhold
September 10, 2004