Partnership for Peace in a New Millenium

Abstract

Abstract : This study analyzes the NATO Partnership for Peace (PfP) and provides recommendations for future direction and changes to the program. It reviews the European security environment, the evolution of NATO and its post-Cold War transition, the development of PfP and its relationship to NATO expansion and the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (EAPC). PfP is exceeding the objectives set for the program: transparency in defense planning and budgeting, civil control of military forces, non-combat operations, cooperative military relations between NATO and partners, and force interoperability. PfP continues to evolve. It draws NATO and partners closer thus creating a more secure and stable Europe. Changes and improvement in PfP will continue to occur as the Alliance's roles and missions adapt to the dynamic environment in Europe. After extensive review of available literature, I propose the following recommendations: (1) the EAPC expand its political dialogue and allow partners a greater voice in the planning and execution of security actions, (2) EAPC and PfP focus greater emphasis on crisis prevention, (3) NATO and EAPC increase emphasis on arms control and disarmament, (4) NATO assign partner nation personnel to NATO subordinate commands and CJTFs, (5) NATO assist in moving ESDl from conceptual to operational status, and (6) NATO develop a sponsorship program for partner military units.