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.

Syria Is Dying

A dictator, inability to compromise and resurgence of the Sunni-Shia divide threaten Syria
Azeem Ibrahim
August 29, 2013

China-US Vie for World Approval

Global citizens view China’s rising economic power over the US as inevitable
Bruce Stokes
August 22, 2013

Amid Mideast Turmoil, What Does Russia Want?

For Syria and beyond, Russia emphasizes principle, pragmatism, sovereignty
Thomas Graham
August 20, 2013

Egypt Highlights Race Between Trade and Terror

Trade pacts like EUROMED could curtail extremists taking advantage of Mideast power vacuums
Humphrey Hawksley
August 15, 2013

Containing the Fire in Syria

Supplying arms to Syria or military intervention could make matters worse
Ryan Crocker
July 23, 2013

Vietnam Between Rock and a Hard Place

Is disappointment with China behind Vietnam president’s hurried visit to Washington?
David Brown
July 18, 2013