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.

The Counterintuitive Jihad

Jihad entails developing good communities, seeking knowledge – not extremism or assertive ignorance
Abukar Arman
November 29, 2012

Gaza: Old Struggle, New Realities

Rising regional powers bring new intensity to Israeli-Palestinian conflict
Rami G. Khouri
November 23, 2012

Iran’s Nuclear Program: Handle With Care

Iran should understand it signals strength by backing away from nuclear- weapons program
Jamsheed K. Choksy, Carol E. B. Choksy
November 14, 2012

Al Qaeda’s Resurgence

Al Qaeda is unpopular, yet takes advantage of failed governance, chaos throughout Muslim world
Bruce Riedel
October 22, 2012

Behind the Iron Curtain

Political prisoners surviving brutal North Korean system reach critical mass
David Hawk
September 28, 2012

India’s Treacherous Northeast

India battles separatist movements, ethnic conflict and foreigners jockeying for influence
Bertil Lintner
September 26, 2012