NATO is a military and political alliance of North American and European states. The words “consensus” and “Article 5” are often heard. What do they mean?
Consensus
Decisions in NATO are taken by consensus: no member country objects to a proposal. That is why the process is long, but the decisions have the support of all allies.
The North Atlantic Council
The main political body. It meets at the level of ambassadors, ministers and leaders. The Secretary General chairs the meetings and ensures that positions are reconciled.
Article 5
Among the key provisions of the North Atlantic Treaty is the principle of collective defence. An armed attack on one or several member countries is regarded as an attack on all. Each country decides for itself what measures to take, but they are aimed at restoring security.
Who can join
New members are invited by decision of all allies. A country must meet certain criteria: democratic institutions, control over the armed forces, compatibility of its forces.
What NATO is not
It is not the EU, which is an economic and political association, although most states belong to both organisations.
Understanding these basics helps in reading news about the Alliance’s summits and decisions.
