Challenges Facing New North Atlantic Treaty Organization Member States

While the primary focus of American foreign policy is clearly outside the European continent, NATO's ongoing enlargement and successful integration of new members remains in the vital interests of the United States. Alliance members, both old and new, are contributing to the American led war on terror in Iraq and Afghanistan. Furthermore, these forces are assuming an even greater responsibility in Afghanistan with 7,838 troops as of 21 February 2005, and while the alliance leadership is not directly involved in Iraq, twelve member nations are contributing 17,964 troops to Operation Iraqi Freedom as of 16 August 2005. By adequately addressing challenges of integration, new member states could be able to accept a greater share of the burden in current and future military operations. This study will endeavor to address three primary integration issues: culture legacies and their future impacts; institutional reform; and issues of military interoperability. Finally, the study will consider how each category affects American governmental leaders, alliance leadership, and new members themselves, followed by possible considerations for all parties.