NATO AND THE FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM

Terrorism is a widespread scourge that knows no perimeter, race or creed. It is therefore a challenge that the international community must tackle together. NATO contributes to the international fight against terrorism in various areas, and in the course of a variety of means. The Alliance’s activities in the struggle against intimidation are in strict accordance with UN principles and international law, including global humanitarian and human rights law.
Since the fight against terrorism has been identified as a core element of the Alliance’s work, NATO has established regular dialogue on terrorism and terrorism-related issues among its members, as well as with non-member countries and other international organizations. It has developed an extensive network of cooperative relationships with many partners, who equally share the desire to face up to the threat of terrorism.
Since August 2003, NATO has been leading the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), in assisting the Government of Afghanistan in expanding its authority and implementing security, thereby, helping to remove the conditions in which terrorism could thrive. While not a counter-terrorism operation, ISAF represents NATO’s determination to help the people of Afghanistan build a stable, secure and democratic state free from the threat of terrorism. In addition, many NATO Allies have forces involved in Operation Enduring Freedom, the ongoing US-led military counter-terrorism operation whose major activities are in Afghanistan.
NATO also provides assistance in protecting the security of major public events in Allied countries that might attract the interest of terrorists. It does this at the request of any member country by deploying NATO Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft (AWACS), elements of NATO’s multinational chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defence battalion, or other capabilities. The Alliance has thus assisted high-visibility events such as Summits and Ministerial meetings, as well as sporting events such as the Athens Olympic Games.