We live in an integrated world interconnected by modern technologies of telecommunications, Internet, and transport marked by increasing trade; tourism; capital and technology flows; outsourcing and offshoring of businesses; sourcing of energy, food, and other commodities from distant lands; migration and labor flows; and growing non-traditional threats.

This process of globalization has been accompanied by a growing Asian resurgence fueled by rapid economic growth which has propelled a shift of the global centre of gravity to the region. This process has been aided by foreign investment as well as transfer of know-how and technology and access to markets. The U.S. has been a prime mover in this process.

Japan led the resurgence, followed by the Asian tigers Singapore, South Korea, Malaysia, and Taiwan. China and other ASEAN countries came next, followed by India and South Asia. Authoritarian regimes have generally been more successful in leveraging globalization and in attracting foreign businesses, and have progressed much faster in contrast to countries with democratic structures.