NATO and the fight against terrorism
What does this mean in practice?
The multifaceted nature of terrorism is such that NATO has engaged in a number of initiatives – political, operational, conceptual, military and technological – to address this issue. NATO has launched, for instance, its first operations outside Europe and has begun a far-reaching transformation of its forces and capabilities. It is also working closely with partner countries and organizations to ensure broad cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
All Alliance activities in the fight against terrorism are fully in line with international law, including human rights standards and humanitarian requirements.
Consultation
In essence, one of NATO’s key strengths is to provide a permanent forum for consultations in security-related matters.
Since the fight against terrorism has been identified as a core element of the Alliance’s work, NATO has established regular dialogue on terrorism and terrorism-related issues among its members, as well as with non-member countries and other international organizations. It has developed an extensive network of cooperative relationships with many partners, which share the same desire to face up to the threat of terrorism.
These consultations help develop and promulgate common views on challenges and responses. They also create strong Allied and partner unity against terrorism, which is an important political signal and a key element of NATO’s response to terrorism.
Operations
NATO is – and has been – involved in a number of operations that are either directly or indirectly related to the fight against terrorism.
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Capabilities
While NATO is constantly transforming its defence policies, structures and procedures to adapt to current and future threats, it is also trying to improve its capabilities. In this context, NATO is developing capabilities and innovative technology that specifically address the issue of terrorism.
The aim is to protect troops, civilians and critical infrastructure against attacks perpetrated by terrorists, such as suicide attacks with improvised explosive devices, rocket attacks against aircraft and helicopters, and the potential use of weapons of mass destruction.
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Co-operation with partners
The fight against terrorism has become an important element of NATO’s cooperation activities and, in some cases, has provided new impetus to create new links.
The contribution by a number of partners to NATO’s operations, as well as their efforts to introduce defence reform through NATO programmes contributes to the prevention of terrorism. In addition, NATO is co-operating with other international organizations so that information is shared and appropriate action can be taken more effectively in the fight against terrorism.
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Consequence management and disaster preparedness
NATO members and Partners work together to plan for, prepare and respond to possible terrorist attacks, including with chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) agents.
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