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.

Islamic Challenge to Indonesia’s Democracy

Democracy remains highly vulnerable to determined anti-democratic movements
Sadanand Dhume
October 15, 2008

War on Terror's Collateral Damage

Pakistan's military ruler rides roughshod over domestic opposition
Ahmed Rashid
November 21, 2003

America's Vulnerable Imperialism

Without political power, US lacks cement to hold together a far-flung empire
Jonathan Schell
November 24, 2003

Justice for Saddam

Trying him in a hybrid international-Iraqi court would benefit Iraq, the Middle East, and the world
Harold Hongju Koh
December 15, 2003

Will Kashmir Protests and Terrorism Thwart India’s Global Ambitions?

Politicians and extremists exploiting grievances to instigate violence could drive away foreign investors
Harsh V. Pant
September 15, 2008

Pakistan on the Brink

Mismanaged “war on terror” has stirred extremism, threatening to rip Pakistan apart
Ahmed Rashid
September 19, 2008