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.

From Bali to Madrid, Attackers Seek to Inflict Ever-Greater Casualties

Experts warn Eta's new generation of activists may take al-Qaida as role model
Ewen MacAskill
March 12, 2004

A Leaner, Meaner Jihad

Madrid bombings show that 'the enemy' in the war on terror is not a single, tightly-knit group
Scott Atran
March 16, 2004

Israeli Assassination Draws World Outrage

In the latest move in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Hamas leader is killed, drawing international protest
March 22, 2004

Bombings and Shootings Rock Uzbekistan

Have Muslims become the scapegoat?
Esmer Islamov
March 30, 2004

Deals With Taliban Could Be Dangerous

Afghan tribes resist any foreign interference in their territory or way of life
Peter Bergen
March 12, 2009