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.

Washington’s Iraq Dilemma: Why Engaging Iran Is a Good Idea

While no silver bullet, dialogue could help expose Iran’s weaknesses
George Perkovich
December 12, 2006

Viewed From Chinese Border, North Korea Is More Curiosity Than Threat

Confident in their government’s ability to control an old ally, the Chinese remain unruffled about North Korea’s nuclear program
Lauren Keane
November 9, 2006

Will Guns Fall Silent in South Asia?

End of civil war in Nepal could serve as model for a troubled region
Paula R. Newberg
December 5, 2006

Pyongyang: Let’s Talk, But Change the Subject

Nuclear North Korea returns to the negotiating table in the hope of consolidating its gain through bipartite talks with the US
Nayan Chanda
November 7, 2006

North Korea’s Nuclear Gamble

The nuclear test challenges South Korea and Japan and shakes the US-dominated Asian security
Shim Jae Hoon
October 10, 2006

China Gets Tough With North Korea

By siding with the US in sanctioning North Korea, China improves relations with Japan and consolidates its regional power
Susan L. Shirk
October 26, 2006

In Turkey, a Capstone to a Violent Year; in Germany, a Realization of Fears

The attacks fuel hard-right policies
Tim Arango
December 20, 2016

“Dear World … Why Are You Silent?”: Aleppo Residents Make Social Plea for Help

Global audiences can follow the accounts of a family or child, but can't provide protection
Tu Thanh Ha
December 15, 2016

Blame Game Starts as Aleppo's Rebels Fall

The war is not over and fighters will continue to oppose the Syrian regime
Jeremy Bowen
December 14, 2016

Beijing Says Friendly Sino-US Ties Rely on One-China Policy

Comment by the US president-elect on longstanding policy could increase pressures for Taiwan
Kristin Huang, Liu Zhen and Teddy Ng
December 12, 2016

Trump, CIA on Collision Course: Washington Post

The US confronts many complex threats that require analysis by intelligence officials
David Nakamura and Greg Miller
December 12, 2016