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.

Lone Wolf Terrorists – No Easy Catch

Impulsive terrorism by a few is a counterterrorism challenge
Bruce Riedel
April 30, 2013

Winning Without a Fight in the South China Sea

Who needs a navy? China launches cruise ships to mark South China Sea claims
Marvin Ott
April 10, 2013

To Lift Afghan Women, Educate All

Project Artemis recruits Afghan women entrepreneurs, who train and employ fellow Afghans
Susan Froetschel
April 8, 2013

WMD Proliferation Threatens the World

A bountiful supply raises risk of WMDs falling into wrong hands
Carol E. B. Choksy, Jamsheed K. Choksy
April 5, 2013

Should South Korea Pursue Nuclear Arms?

The US could return nuclear weapons to South Korea to contain Pyongyang’s threat
Bennett Ramberg
March 29, 2013

Powers Seek Influence in Burma’s Conflict

Burmese government battles insurgents as China and the US scramble for influence
Bertil Lintner
March 18, 2013