NATO Enlargement--Round Two; Prudence or Folly

摘要

After the collapse of the Soviet Union and the Warsaw Treaty Organization (WTO), the countries of Central and Eastern Europe looked to the West for a new security structure, particularly through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Three of these countries (Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic) have very recently joined the Alliance and NATO is seriously considering a second round of expansion. However, many significant problems must be solved before enlarging the Alliance again. In light of this, NATO should rigorously avoid such a move until these problems are fully resolved and should carefully chart its course through the wake of a restructured defense and security system in Europe. I found most source material for this project in the Air University Library at Maxwell AFB, AL, along with much other associated material through the Internet. I used materials representing all sides of the debate and from all significant parties involved. Although the debate is still ongoing, my research led me to conclude an additional round of NATO expansion, especially so soon after the first round, would be at best imprudent and at worst irresponsible and foolhardy. Accordingly, I believe another round of NATO enlargement should not be undertaken at all.