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.

The Poisonous Legacy of the Iraq War – Part II

Those who blame only the West for Middle East violence should also look closer to home
Husain Haqqani
March 19, 2007

Peaceful Resolution of the Iran-UK Crisis: Could It Be a Precedent?

The latest Iranian hostage crisis offers a key lesson in diplomacy
Dilip Hiro
April 9, 2007

The Rise in Extremism – Part I

Saudi Arabia battles holy warriors from the pulpit
Fahad Nazer
March 30, 2007

The Rise in Extremism – Part II

As fundamentalists in Indonesia strive to control and homogenize Islam, social harmony is the first casualty
Baladas Ghoshal
April 3, 2007

A Quietly Growing Nuclear Danger in North Korea

Only a jumpstart to negotiations between the US and North Korea can halt deterioration
Nayan Chanda
January 28, 2003

Member of the Axis of Evil No More

With flexibility by all parties, the North Korean promise to terminate its nuclear-weapons program could usher in a new era
Gavan McCormack
March 5, 2007