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.

Chechen Terrorism: Old World Motive, New World Method?

Historical tensions underlie current – and future – turbulence in Russia
Ben Wetherall
August 31, 2004

Global Terror Threats Pose Great Local Challenges to First-Responders

Firefighters, police, and emergency medical personnel in cities around the world need more money and support to respond effectively to terrorist attacks
S. L. Bachman
July 27, 2004

UN Efforts in Iraq No Walk in the Park

Unlike the UN's experience in Cambodia, continuing violence and a weak government pose huge challenges to election preparations in Iraq
Benny Widyono
August 5, 2004

Terrorists and Their Tools - Part I

Suicide bombings driven more by politics than religious zeal
Riaz Hassan
April 23, 2004

US Nation-Building Abroad – Part III

Afghanistan unlikely to meet Washington's September elections deadline
Ahmed Rashid
June 1, 2004

US Nation-Building Abroad – Part II

Iraqi abuse revelations deepen distrust of US
Fawaz A. Gerges
May 28, 2004

Brexit and the Future of US-UK Military Cooperation

Brexit could disrupt functioning of NATO
Stephen Meyer
June 19, 2016

US Officials Say American Muslims Do Report Extremist Threats

FBI director says good relationship with Muslims is essential for law enforcement
Kristina Cooke and Joseph Ax
June 16, 2016

Obama's Pivot to Asia Is Working

Diplomacy, trade and unity among China’s neighbors could ease tensions in the South China Sea
Doyle McManus
June 3, 2016

Migrants Feared Dead in Mediterranean Sinkings

NGO criticizes EU focus on security and anti-smuggling rather than search-and-rescue operations
Patrick Kingsley
June 2, 2016

Nature’s Answer to Climate Risk

Restoring natural coastal protections makes economic sense
Maria Damanaki
May 31, 2016