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.

Thailand’s Red Tide

Violence in Thailand could affect regional politics and global food prices
Pavin Chachavalpongpun
April 30, 2010

North Korea and Syria: A Warning in the Desert

Pyongyang’s covert sale of nuclear technology to Syria holds broader lesson
Gregory L. Schulte
April 28, 2010

Kyrgyzstan Turmoil Puts US Base and Afghan War in Balance

The small nation is torn over governance and foreign ties
Dilip Hiro
April 12, 2010

Moscow Bombing: The Black Widows’ Global Roots

Radical Islam and Russian policy led to the Moscow Metro bombings
Richard Weitz
March 31, 2010

Xinjiang – Where China’s Worry Intersects the World

Regional instability adds to concerns about restive Muslim minority
Christopher M. Clarke
March 19, 2010

Pakistan and the Afghanistan End Game – Part II

Pakistan sees no reason to stop supporting terrorists
Ashley J. Tellis
March 15, 2010