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.

Terror Fight to Intensify

March 11 bombing in Madrid may have been planned by Islamists in Germany
William Pratt
March 26, 2004

Bush Signals Patience on North Korea is Waning

Directive Sent to Team at Talks in Beijing
Glenn Kessler
March 4, 2004

Bush Envoy Briefs Panel After Talks on A-Bombs

Slow progress in talks with North Korea
David E. Sanger
March 3, 2004

After the Train Bombs, a Political Bombshell

Spanish ruling party loses amid increasing signs that it may have been al-Qaeda that bombed Madrid's trains last week
March 15, 2004

Keep the Ban on Arms for China

Eliminating the ban would dramatically enhance China's rapidly developing military
Roger Cliff
March 22, 2004