The end of the Cold War period represented a critical juncture in the global expansion of capitalism, freeing up resources for the US to lead and support an accelerated neo-liberal push. Economic regimes that stood in the way of neo-liberalism came under increased scrutiny, and support for authoritarian political regimes became more difficult to rationalise. But the US-led 'war on terror' has created counter-pressures, creating opportunities for regimes to consolidate or promote authoritarian rule, argue Garry Rodan and Kevin Hewison.