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.

Is Iraq Becoming a New Vietnam? - Part Two

Not necessarily, but a three-pronged approach could prevent the rise of active resistance
Timothy Carney
July 16, 2003

Is Iraq Becoming a New Vietnam? - Part One

Danger lies in a new hybrid of terrorism and Vietnam-style guerilla warfare
Orville Schell
July 14, 2003

At the Crossroads of History

The UN Secretary-General urges nations to avoid the path that led to two World Wars
Kofi Annan
June 30, 2003

Preempting North Korean Threat in the Sea

A smart U.S. foreign policy initiative is no substitute for a broader strategy
Michael O'Hanlon
June 20, 2003

Is the Sun Setting on US Dominance? – Part II

Presiding over a network of powerful regional alliances, the US can maintain its preeminence
Jiang Qian
February 29, 2008

Online Terrorists Prey on the Vulnerable

Websites target marginalized women and youth, recruiting for suicide missions
Gabriel Weimann
March 5, 2008