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.

Lonely at the Top

Two years after September 11, the US is still blind to the perils of imperial isolation.
Clyde Prestowitz
September 13, 2003

Who's Winning the War on Terror?

Two years after Sept. 11, the Taliban is thriving along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.
Ahmed Rashid
September 5, 2003

Pakistan’s New Tack on Fighting Terror

By setting consistent ground rules, Pakistan could win public support for war on terror
Ashley J. Tellis
May 9, 2008

China Ascendant – Part II

Virulence of nationalism – of China and others like India – does not bode well
Pranab Bardhan
April 28, 2008

Security Measures May Not be Sand in the Wheels of Commerce

Initial costs could be followed by a boost in efficiency of global trade.
William Mougayar
August 19, 2003

Rogue Nuclear Programs Require Creative Approach

Strict inspections and security assurances are necessary to solve the “axis of evil” nuclear proliferation problem.
Arch W. Roberts, Jr.
August 8, 2003