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.

Wary of China, Its Southern Neighbors Court India

Vietnam and Burma’s opening towards India dovetails with India’s Look East Policy
Harsh V. Pant
October 28, 2011

South Korea’s Nuclear Weapons Temptation

Alarmed by the US in decline, South Korean hardliners push for nuclear-weapon development
Lee Byong-Chul
October 14, 2011

Pakistan Seeks Control of Its Afghanistan Endgame

Using the strategic arm of the Taliban, Pakistan hastens US exit
Bruce Riedel
September 30, 2011

Unraveling China’s “String of Pearls”

Chinese-built ports in Gwadar, Colombo or Chittagong have commercial value, but pose no threat
Ashley S. Townshend
September 16, 2011

The US Public Wants Disengagement

Tired of war and debt crises, US voters seek time-out on foreign affairs
Bruce Stokes
September 14, 2011

The World After 9/11 – Part II

Reaching beyond its home base in Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Taiba strives for global jihad
Stephen Tankel
September 8, 2011