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.

Schröder's Agenda

NATO takes back seat to Germany's national concerns
Aaron Kirchfeld
July 9, 2004

Blair: NATO Lacks Sense of Urgency

Quick action and unity on Iraq and Afghanistan are crucial
Matthew Tempest
June 30, 2004

Poor 'Are Paying for War on Terror'

US, UK aid money is being misused, report says
Mark Tran
May 10, 2004

Muslims: Judge Us Not By Un-Islamic Acts of Few

Muslim scholars condemn prisoner abuse and televised execution as fundamentally irreligious and unpatriotic crimes
Parvez Ahmed
May 12, 2004

New Violence, Old Problem

The Saudis fight terror, but not those who wage it
Neil MacFarquhar
June 6, 2004