What countries are waiting to join NATO? This question has been on the minds of many as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) continues to expand its membership. With the goal of ensuring collective defense and promoting stability in the Euro-Atlantic area, NATO has been actively seeking new members to strengthen its global presence. In this article, we will explore the countries aspiring to join NATO and the challenges they face in their quest for membership.
The first country on the list of nations waiting to join NATO is Montenegro. Montenegro, a small country in Southeast Europe, applied for NATO membership in 2009. After a lengthy process, including the completion of reforms and the adoption of necessary legislation, Montenegro was officially invited to join NATO in December 2015. The country’s accession to NATO was finalized in June 2017, making it the 29th member of the alliance.
Next on the list is North Macedonia, which has been seeking NATO membership for years. The country’s application was initially blocked by Greece due to a long-standing dispute over the name “Macedonia.” However, following a historic agreement between the two countries in June 2018, Greece lifted its veto, allowing North Macedonia to move forward with its application. The country was officially invited to join NATO in March 2020, and its accession is expected to be completed in 2021.
Another country eagerly awaiting NATO membership is Bosnia and Herzegovina. Bosnia and Herzegovina applied for NATO membership in 2009, but its application has been pending since then. The country faces several challenges, including unresolved issues related to the 1992-1995 war and political tensions. However, Bosnia and Herzegovina has been working on reforms to meet NATO’s requirements, and the alliance continues to support the country’s efforts.
Georgia, a former Soviet republic in the South Caucasus region, has been seeking NATO membership for many years. Georgia’s application was initially blocked by Russia, which uses its influence to prevent the country from joining the alliance. Despite this, Georgia has continued to work on reforms and strengthen its defense capabilities. The country’s NATO aspirations have been a source of tension between Georgia and Russia, but Georgia remains committed to joining the alliance.
Lastly, on the list of countries waiting to join NATO is Ukraine. Ukraine has been seeking NATO membership since 2002, but its application has faced significant opposition from Russia. The conflict in Eastern Ukraine has further complicated the country’s NATO aspirations. However, Ukraine remains determined to strengthen its ties with the alliance and has been working on reforms to meet NATO’s requirements.
In conclusion, several countries are waiting to join NATO, each facing unique challenges in their quest for membership. As the alliance continues to expand its global presence, these countries will need to address their respective issues and work closely with NATO to ensure their integration into the organization. The successful integration of these countries into NATO will further strengthen the alliance’s commitment to collective defense and promote stability in the Euro-Atlantic area.
