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.

AQ Khan Issue Settled: Jamali

Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf lauded by his supporters for not letting in inspectors
February 9, 2004

At Least 7 Nations Tied To Pakistani Nuclear Ring

Dr. Khan's nuclear smuggling network comes to light
Peter Slevin
February 7, 2004

For Bush, a Tactical Retreat on Iraq

White House agrees to independent investigation, but doesn't admit error directly
Dana Milbank
February 2, 2004

Refusing to Save Darfur

The international community fails to halt the raging genocide
Eric Reeves
January 14, 2009

Key Pakistani Is Said to Admit Atom Transfers

The 'father of Pakistan's atomic bomb' is both national hero and accused smuggler
David Rohde
February 2, 2004