Since its inception in 1949, Canada has played an integral role in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and its numerous military and non-military engagements. As a founding member, Canada’s involvement over the past 70 years has varied from troop deployment and training in Europe during much of the Cold War, to activity abroad in places like Afghanistan and Libya. The articles in the NATO and Canada program examine NATO’s operational history and Canada’s role from a multitude of perspectives. The NATO Association of Canada aims to supply Canadians with a greater insight into the inner workings of this long-standing alliance and its Canadian contributions.

NATO and Canada

Why Are Tensions Between NATO and Russia So High?

Introduction A protracted history of political, military, and security tensions characterize the complex and tense relationship between NATO and Russia. Right now, there is a deficit of trust between NATO and Russia, disagreements over security, regional issues and significant military build-up on both sides. From an economic and political viewpoint, Russia perceives NATO as a Read More…

NATO and Canada

Assessing the Justification for NATO’s Military Intervention in the Kosovo War: A Humanitarian and Political Analysis

This article presents a critical evaluation of Michael Ignatieff’s essay titled “Is Military Intervention Over Kosovo Justified?”, which features a written debate with Robert Skidelsky on NATO’s military involvement in the Kosovo War of 1998 through an exchange of letters. Ignatieff supports NATO’s intervention in Kosovo, while Skidelsky does not.

NATO and Canada

To What Extent Is the NATO-Russia Founding Act Being Violated?

The NATO-Russia Founding Act, signed in 1997, established a framework for NATO-Russia cooperation and outlined mutual respect and cooperation principles. This commitment includes recognising the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all states in the Euro-Atlantic region (including Ukraine) and refraining from using or threatening to use force against any state actor. In particular, Section Read More…

NATO and Canada

Canada’s Relationship with the United States: A National Security Perspective

This article looks at Canada’s proactive measures in the aftermath of 9/11, such as increased national security spending, efforts to protect critical infrastructure, and collaboration with the US, while also addressing the strain on US-Canada relations during the Trump administration

NATO and Canada

Assessing NATO’s Interventions in Afghanistan and Libya

This article examines NATO’s involvement in Afghanistan and Libya, assessing the motives and effectiveness of these interventions. Criticisms include a lack of coordination with stakeholders and potential economic conflicts among participating NATO members. The interventions aimed to promote security and stability but faced challenges. Lessons learned highlight the need for nuanced and context-dependent approaches in peace-building operations. The long-term impact of these interventions and their effectiveness remain subjects of ongoing debate.