The Washington Treaty

NATO was founded on April 4, 1949, by the Washington Treaty, also known as the North Atlantic Treaty.

First HQ Location

NATO's first headquarters were located in London, UK, before moving to Paris, France, and then to Brussels, Belgium.

Article 5 Invocation

Article 5, the principle of collective defense, has only been invoked once in NATO's history, following the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

Integrated Military Command

NATO has a unique integrated military command structure, where forces from various member countries operate together under a single command.

Partnership for Peace (PfP)

NATO's Partnership for Peace program includes countries that are not NATO members, promoting cooperation and peacekeeping.

Civil Emergency Planning

NATO engages in civil emergency planning, providing assistance in disasters such as natural calamities and humanitarian crises.

Research and Innovation

NATO runs the SPS program, fostering scientific collaboration and innovation among member and partner countries.

Cybersecurity Efforts

NATO has recognized cyberspace as an operational domain and has a Cyber Defense Pledge to enhance members' cyber defense capabilities.

NATO-Russia Council

Established in 2002, the NATO-Russia Council aims to facilitate consultation and cooperation on security issues between NATO and Russia.

Energy Security

NATO addresses energy security by protecting critical energy infrastructure and ensuring the security of energy supplies.

NATO's Role in Afghanistan

NATO led the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan from 2003 to 2014, the alliance's longest and most extensive mission.

Gender Equality Initiatives

NATO promotes gender equality through its Women, Peace, and Security initiative, aiming to integrate gender perspectives in its operations.

Maritime Security

NATO conducted Operation Ocean Shield (2009-2016) to combat piracy off the Horn of Africa, ensuring maritime security.

Deterrence in Eastern Europe

Since 2017, NATO has deployed multinational battlegroups in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland to deter aggression and ensure stability.