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.

Call the Conflict by Its Proper Name: Geo-Civil War

Stability for the Middle East is a top priority, as instability only emboldens radicals and forces that oppose democracy
John Brenkman
September 12, 2006

Can a White House Visit Shore Up a Sagging US-South Korea Alliance?

Two allies, once strong, quarrel over how to end the North Korean nuclear threat
Morton Abramowitz
September 14, 2006

Iran Befriends Iraq

The US overthrow of Saddam reconciles old enemies
Dilip Hiro
September 19, 2006

Gauging Terror – Part I, Lebanon

It’s a mistake to brand a political party with social services, like Hezbollah, solely as terrorists
Fawaz A. Gerges
August 15, 2006

The Jihad and the West – Part I

Jihad is ultimately political action that can be influenced by dialogue and negotiations
Riaz Hassan
September 21, 2006

Gauging Terror – Part II, India

Despite suffering substantial losses from terrorism, India resists initiating military strikes
Michael Krepon
August 17, 2006

The Secret Eye Inside Mosul

Blogger risks life to document city life under ISIS rule
Robin Wright
November 2, 2016

Internet of Things: Have We Bitten Off More Than We Can Chew?

More than 6 billion such devices are in use
Alyssa Newcomb and Jo Ling Kent
October 28, 2016

Germany Struggles to Find United Stance on Russia

Merkel’s opponents eye Russia’s energy and hope economic cooperation will reduce aggression
Christiane Hoffmann, Peter Müller, Ralf Neukirch, Christoph Pauly, Christoph Reuter, Mathieu von Rohr and Christoph Schult
October 27, 2016

Is a Better World Possible Without US Military Force?

Restraint in foreign intervention does not lead to safer world
Shadi Hamid
October 24, 2016

Battle for Mosul: Why Troops Reaching ISIS Stronghold Is a Delicate Balance

Governance challenges won't vanish with the Islamic State's defeat
Matt Bradley
October 21, 2016