Who recently joined NATO? This question has been on the minds of many as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) continues to expand its membership. In recent years, several countries have expressed their desire to become part of this prestigious alliance, aiming to enhance their security and stability in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
The latest member to join NATO is North Macedonia. On March 30, 2020, North Macedonia officially became the 30th member of the alliance, marking a significant milestone in its history. The accession process, which began in 2008, was long and challenging, but the country’s commitment to democratic values, rule of law, and Euro-Atlantic integration eventually paid off.
North Macedonia’s entry into NATO was met with both excitement and skepticism. Proponents argue that the country’s membership strengthens the alliance’s eastern flank, providing a buffer against potential threats from neighboring countries. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential for increased tensions in the region and the potential for NATO to become involved in conflicts that do not directly threaten its member states.
Another country that has recently expressed its intention to join NATO is Sweden. Sweden has long been a strong advocate for European security and has been actively involved in various NATO missions and operations. In recent years, the country has faced increased pressure from Russia, prompting its government to consider joining the alliance. Sweden’s accession process is expected to be lengthy and complex, as it must first ratify the membership agreement by a two-thirds majority in its parliament.
In addition to North Macedonia and Sweden, other countries have also shown interest in joining NATO. Montenegro, which joined the alliance in 2017, has been a model of stability and cooperation within the organization. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, and Kosovo have also expressed their desire to become members, although their paths to accession are fraught with challenges.
The expansion of NATO has been a contentious issue for many years. Some argue that the alliance should focus on its core mission of collective defense and not expand its membership beyond its geographical boundaries. Others believe that welcoming new members strengthens the alliance and promotes stability in the region.
As the world continues to face numerous security challenges, the question of who recently joined NATO remains relevant. The expansion of the alliance not only enhances the security of its members but also sends a clear message to potential adversaries that the United States and its allies are committed to maintaining peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic region.
