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.

Islamic Troop Plan Prompts Skepticism

Powell casts doubt on Saudi proposal for deployment of Muslim force in Iraq
Robin Wright
August 1, 2004

To Save Lives in Darfur, Back African Peacekeepers and Demand War Crimes Accountability, Says ICG's Prendergast

John Prendergast of The International Crisis Group discusses genocide and what must be done in Sudan’s Darfur region
August 4, 2004

'We should remain calm'

German interior minister Otto Schily discusses the Madrid bombings and the challenges to Germany posed by terrorism
Eckart Lohse
March 26, 2004

Handover Advanced but Problems Remain

Official Iraqi sovereignty isn't panacea for ground-level woes
Paul Reynolds
June 28, 2004

Terrorism Could Cost East Asia 3% in Growth over 5 Years: Study

Australian report sees economic impact lasting up to 10 years or more
Donald Urquhart
June 22, 2004