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.

Now You See It, Now You Don't

North Korea withdraws its supposed nuclear concession amid concern that it wants to have its cake and eat it too
Shim Jae Hoon
September 22, 2005

Schooled For a House of Islam

An Islamic-educated journalist in Indonesia chose a different path from classmates who embraced Darul Islam
Noor Huda Ismail
August 25, 2005

Russia and China Together Again, Gingerly

Though unhappy with some US policies, both need the West
Yu Bin
September 6, 2005

Un nouveau grand jeu en marche

Ahmed Rashid
July 26, 2005

Great Game Reloaded

Defense Secretary Rumsfeld fights off a Russian and Chinese challenge in Central Asia, but a long struggle lies ahead
Ahmed Rashid
July 26, 2005

Scramble in the Horn

Long-running conflicts in the region threaten stability
James Jeffrey
August 24, 2016

China Warming to New Cold War?

Quarrels over the South China Sea have triggered a debate among analysts
Kor Kian Beng
August 22, 2016

Food for Thought

Protectionist mood in advanced economies may nudge emerging economies to develop their own service markets
Nayan Chanda
August 15, 2016

Battle for Aleppo Carries High Stakes for Syria

Shifting allegiances among rebels complicate US strategy
Yaroslav Trofimov
August 12, 2016

The End of Globalization? International Security Implications

Technology is reducing jobs and need for long supply chains – national security policies must adjust
T.X. Hammes
August 5, 2016