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.

Limits of Chinese Power in Southeast Asia

Common economic goals enable trade cooperation, but China’s tough line on territorial disputes worries the region
Evelyn Goh
April 26, 2011

The West Likes Democracy for Some Arabs, But Not Others

Syrians and Bahrainis chafe under minority rule, but their ties to Iran matter most
Dilip Hiro
April 22, 2011

China’s Foreign-Policy Balancing Act – Part II

Delicate handling and consistent policies can help China regain the trust of neighbors
Shen Dingli
April 15, 2011

China’s Foreign-Policy Balancing Act – Part I

China, claiming an aversion to using force for international conflicts, hedges on Libya
Jonathan Fenby
April 13, 2011

Libya Exposes Fault Lines in the Mediterranean – Part IV

A new world order – depending on the BRICs – is not emerging anytime soon
Harsh V. Pant
April 1, 2011

Libya Exposes Fault Lines in the Mediterranean – Part II

In the volatile Middle East, successful intervention requires respect for Arab public opinion
Shashank Joshi
March 28, 2011