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 Fallout of Pakistani Revelations on North Korea

Details about sales to North Korea could prove valuable in containing Pyongyang's nuclear ambitions
Phillip C. Saunders
February 23, 2004

President Bush's New Plan to Stop Proliferation

Will his unilateral approach and the budget shortfall make it all bark and no bite?
Joseph Cirincione
February 13, 2004

As Routes to Europe Close, Refugees Consider a Deadly Crossing

Closed borders in Europe pushes desperate refugees to Libya and treacherous Mediterranean crossing
Mirren Gidda
April 13, 2016

China Expresses Anger at G7 Statement on East, South China Seas

The G7 statement asked countries to refrain from intimidation or land reclamation
April 12, 2016

Yemen Conflict: Clashes Rattle Shaky Truce

Iran, Saudi Arabia and other outside forces must pull back from civil war
April 11, 2016

Rohingya Left Behind in Myanmar's Power Transition

Minority Muslims are denied citizenship, education and opportunity
Lucy Kafanov
April 1, 2016

At the Nuclear Security Summit, Real Action on the Sidelines

The summit aims to curb nuclear proliferation, terrorism and capabilities of rogue states
April 1, 2016