The Defence alliance exists to deter and defend its members from threats to peace, security and prosperity. The Alliance brings together the political and military might of its 32 member countries, pooling their expertise and resources to act collectively when a threat emerges. Hundreds of civil and military experts, representing their national delegations in NATO Headquarters, take part in consultations and decision-making every day. NATO’s decisions are made by consensus and embody the collective will of the Alliance.

The Alliance is preparing for the future, addressing the challenges of an increasingly unpredictable security environment. At the 2023 Vilnius Summit and 2024 Washington Summit, Allied Leaders agreed major steps to adapt NATO’s deterrence and defence, including upgrading their forces and overhauling their plans and structures. They also renewed their Defence Investment Pledge, committing to invest 2% of their GDP in defence and to boost their defence industrial capacity. The Alliance is working to develop an all-hazards approach to resilience – enabling societies to prepare for, respond to and recover from the full spectrum of risks and hazards.

The Alliance remains strongly committed to effective arms control and disarmament and works actively with non-member countries on a broad range of political and security-related issues. Its network of structured partnerships encompasses countries from the Euro-Atlantic area, the Mediterranean and the Gulf region, as well as a number of partner organisations and international organisations. These partners pursue dialogue and practical cooperation with the Alliance, and contribute to NATO-led operations and missions.