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.

Wars That Defy Categorization

The war in Iraq, 9/11 attacks and the Iranian Revolution pose challenges for Western imagination
Dilip Hiro
September 6, 2007

Doing God’s Work for the Taliban

Korean Christian missionaries end up bolstering the terrorists in Afghanistan
Shim Jae Hoon
September 4, 2007

In Post-9/11 World, US President Has the Loneliest Job

The next president faces an uphill climb to restore domestic and global trust in the US
Bruce Stokes
September 10, 2007

All at Sea Over Resources in East Asia

Competing claims over the South China Sea among China and its neighbors could destabilize the region
Barry Wain
August 14, 2007

Pakistan's Anniversary Wish – Justice

Denying justice in the name of fighting terrorism will backfire
Ahmed Rashid
August 16, 2007

Interrupting a History of Tolerance – Part II

Religion provides little basis for the conflict between Palestinians and Israel
Riaz Hassan
July 24, 2007