From Poland to the Baltics – NATO enlargement has brought stability and security. This success story must continue.
When NATO first expanded eastward in 1999, there were many skeptics. "This will provoke Russia," they said. "The new members will weaken the Alliance." History has proven these critics wrong.
Poland, the Czech Republic, and Hungary – the first new members after the Cold War – are stable democracies and important allies today. The Baltic states, which joined in 2004, have developed into prosperous societies despite their difficult history and geographic location.
What has NATO enlargement brought?
1. Stability: No NATO member has ever been attacked. Article 5 is the strongest security guarantee there is.
2. Democracy: NATO membership requires democratic standards. This has driven reforms in all new member countries.
3. Economic Progress: Security is the prerequisite for economic development. The new NATO states have experienced enormous growth since joining.
4. European Integration: NATO and EU membership often go hand in hand. Both reinforce each other.
The success story must continue. Ukraine, Georgia, and the Western Balkans states deserve the same chance for security and stability that our eastern neighbors have already received.
