Setting the Stage and On the Ground: Contributing to Stability

NATO Allies’ security is intrinsically linked to that of their neighbors. In the 21st century, NATO has played an increasingly important role in managing crises and fighting terrorism, including around the Mediterranean and in the MENA region. To deal with these more diffused and asymmetric threats, the Alliance has learned to use different tools to prevent security crises and political instability and contribute to stability in the Alliance’s neighborhood. NATO has invested in political dialogue and practical cooperation with regional partners to address urgent security challenges. Recognizing that prevention is better than intervention, NATO has helped train and build the capacity of partners in areas like counterterrorism, crisis management, and defense reform.

Looking to 2030, how can the alliance further strengthen its security and defense assistance to partners in its neighborhood? How should NATO’s next Strategic Concept define NATO’s goals and interests in the region, and maintain the 360-degree approach in the years to come? What are the alliance’s main expectations towards regional partners?