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.

Business as Usual

Despite worldwide condemnation of torture, the Iraqi Governing Council has been virtually silent
Nermeen Al-Mufti
May 7, 2004

U.S. Training African Forces to Uproot Terrorists

Pentagon's lesson from Afghanistan and Iraq: use local forces, American not GIs
Craig S. Smith
May 11, 2004

Modern Mercenaries on the Iraqi Frontier

Gun-for-hire gets a new face
James Glanz
April 4, 2004

Human Rights Climate 'Worst in 50 Years'

2003 was a dismal year for human rights, says Amnesty International
Simon Jeffery
May 26, 2004

Muslim Rivals Unite In Baghdad Uprising

"A new style of resistance" in Iraq unites former Sunni and Shiite Muslim foes in violent anti-American militia action
Karl Vick
April 7, 2004