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.

Somalia’s Piracy Offers Lessons in Global Governance

Protecting the global commons requires more than a military response
Christopher Jasparro
April 6, 2009

Tactics in a Cosmic War

Ending the “war on terror” starts with dropping the phrase and addressing deeper issues
Reza Aslan
April 22, 2009

Obama’s Afghanistan-Pakistan Quandary – Part I

The US expansion of military commitment to Afghanistan without nation-building is unlikely to succeed
Ashley J. Tellis
April 13, 2009

Obama’s Afghanistan-Pakistan Quandary – Part II

Pakistan wants US pressure on India as condition for cooperating against Al Qaeda
Haider Ali Hussein Mullick
April 15, 2009

Obama Hones Iran Strategy

The US puts out “bigger sticks and bigger carrots” to halt nuclear program
Leonard S. Spector
March 16, 2009

China Rises Again – Part II

By provocatively engaging the US Navy, Beijing may be trying to change the international rules
Glenn D. Tiffert
March 27, 2009