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.

Foreign Envoys Gather in Middle East

Calls for a ceasefire are loud and numerous
Ulrike Putz
January 6, 2009

Gaza 2009 – To Win, All Israel Has to Do Is Survive

The international community is at a loss over how to end the stubborn hatred that drives the Israeli-Palestinian conflict
Bradley Burston
January 2, 2009

Ex-Arms Monitor Urges an Inquiry on Iraqi Threat

White House disagrees, calls for patience
Richard W. Stevenson
January 29, 2004

Earthquake Narrows US-Iran Rift

Recent developments and "earthquake diplomacy" could mean that the time is right for a US-Iran rapprochement
Roshanak Taghavi
January 30, 2004

For Bush, a Tactical Retreat on Iraq

White House agrees to independent investigation, but doesn't admit error directly
Dana Milbank
February 2, 2004