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.

How to Keep the Nuclear Genie in the Bottle

Nations cooperate to combat nuclear terrorism, despite disagreements over state activities
Richard Weitz
January 19, 2011

Dealing With Nuclear North Korea

Diplomatic recognition of Pyongyang may have to be tried
Bennett Ramberg
January 10, 2011

A Tale of Two Ports

Gwadar and Chabahar display Chinese-Indian rivalry in the Arabian Sea
Christophe Jaffrelot
January 7, 2011

The Post-WikiLeaks World – Part I

Iran may be emboldened by the cable revelations, but overconfidence could be costly
Jamsheed K. Choksy
December 15, 2010

Christians of the Levant on the Brink of Extinction

In an ironic twist, Western countries may have hastened Christians' departure from the Middle East
May Akl
December 10, 2010

The WikiLeaks Ravage – Part II

Inspired by a modern-day Robin Hood, activists battle for transparency and the internet’s soul
Johan Lagerkvist
December 8, 2010