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.

U.S. Drops Plan to Exempt G.I.'s From U.N. Court

Pressure from UN Secretary-General and aftermath of Iraq torture scandal cause US to back down on International Criminal Court
Warren Hoge
June 24, 2004

Can of Worms?

With a former prison warden now head of Al-Qaeda in Saudi Arabia, fears abound that the security apparatus has been infiltrated by Islamic militants
Gamal Nkrumah
June 25, 2004

UK's Flawed Position on Global Court

Tony Blair should stop backing Washington's special exemption on International Criminal Court
Steve Crawshaw
June 22, 2004

US Agents Target Indonesia in Rigid Visa Checks

US Homeland Security agents will oversee visa operations in Indonesia
Tiarma Siboro
October 9, 2003

Still Plotting, Still Recruiting

Think tank report claims Al-Qaeda is rebuilding its ranks and plotting more attacks
May 26, 2004