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Journal of Military and Strategic Studies
Journal of Military and Strategic Studies
NATO'S LITMUS TEST: PRIORITIZING AFGHANISTAN
Joshua Walker, International Relations Program, Yale University
Abstract
As the first out-of-Europe deployment operation for NATO in its 60 year history Afghanistan has become NATO’s most important mission. Not only is success in Afghanistan crucial for any future hopes of a globally engaged and active NATO, but for the very existence and credibility of NATO. In other words, Afghanistan has become NATO’s litmus test in a post-9/11 environment. As a historic first for NATO, Europe and America have far more at stake in Afghanistan than their own national interests. While the upcoming NATO summit in Riga will certainly offer a chance for the heads of states gathered to rhetorically affirm the Alliance, events in the mountains and villages of Afghanistan are ultimately where NATO’s future will be affirmed.