Celebrating Milestones: Commemorating 75 Years of NATO and 70 Years of ATA at a Landmark Online Roundtable Discussion
On Monday, April 15th, 2024, the Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA) organized an online Roundtable discussion to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of NATO and the 70th Anniversary of ATA.
Seventy-five years ago, visionary leaders forged NATO, an alliance rooted in collective defense and mutual cooperation. Since its inception, NATO has been a beacon of international security, fostering stability, peace, and prosperity among member states and beyond.
Simultaneously, we celebrated the 70-year journey of the Atlantic Treaty Association, a pivotal force in promoting citizen engagement and dialogue. Through initiatives like information dissemination and open dialogue, ATA has empowered individuals and civil societies to shape transatlantic relations and global governance.
As we marked these significant milestones, we reflected on the enduring relevance of NATO and ATA in a rapidly evolving security landscape. We acknowledged the invaluable contributions of member states, partners, and allies in advancing peace, security, and democratic values worldwide.
We were honored to host a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:
Keynote Speaker, Ms. Marie-Doha Besancenot, Assistant Secretary General of NATO Public Diplomacy Division (PDD):
Ms. Marie-Doha Besancenot, NATO Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy, delivered a keynote speech at the online event, expressing gratitude to the Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA) for its crucial role in promoting dialogue and enhancing citizen engagement. She highlighted the significance of ATA as NATO’s closest partner in civil society, commending their efforts in sharing NATO’s messages and explaining the alliance’s mission to diverse communities. Ms. Besancenot shared insights from a recent solemn celebration at NATO HQ, commemorating the alliance’s 75th anniversary. She described poignant moments, including the wreath-laying ceremony to honor NATO lives lost and the presence of the Washington Treaty, symbolizing the enduring bond of solidarity among member nations. The Assistant Secretary General emphasized NATO’s values-based alliance, characterized by a simple pledge of solidarity and mutual protection. She underscored the alliance’s enduring strength and the transformative power of collective defense, citing testimonials from allied nations on the life-saving impact of NATO membership. Ms. Besancenot highlighted the current security challenges facing NATO, including Russia’s aggression in Ukraine and the growing alignment among adversarial nations. She stressed the importance of countering disinformation and misinformation, which pose significant threats to security and democratic values. In response to these challenges, Ms. Besancenot outlined a threefold approach to enhance NATO’s response. This includes establishing a common methodology for sharing information on disinformation practices, implementing coordination mechanisms to alert allies of threats, and engaging influencers to amplify NATO’s messages, particularly among younger audiences. Looking ahead, Besancenot emphasized NATO’s commitment to strengthening defense and deterrence capabilities, as evidenced by the ongoing Steadfast Defender military exercise, the largest since the Cold War. She highlighted the upcoming NATO summit in July as a historic opportunity to reaffirm unity, progress, and continued support for Ukraine. In conclusion, Ms. Besancenot expressed gratitude for the collaboration with ATA and underscored the importance of collective efforts in addressing security challenges and preserving democratic values.
Mr. Theodossios Georgiou, President of the Atlantic Treaty Association
The President of the Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA), Mr. Theodossios Georgiou highlighted the historic collaboration between NATO and ATA, which spans 70 years. He underscored the importance of this partnership in advancing shared democratic values of peace, freedom, and well-being. President Georgiou emphasized the ATA’s role in promoting transparency, defending the principles of the NATO treaty, and fostering public support for international organizations. He stressed that membership in such organizations entails a commitment to upholding shared values and acting democratically to protect them. Public support, he noted, is essential for the legitimacy and long-term survival of democratic societies. Furthermore, President Georgiou officially welcomed the Swedish Atlantic Council as a full member of ATA, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the organization over the years. In his closing remarks, President Georgiou extended gratitude to Assistant Secretary General Besancenot for her valuable contributions and expressed appreciation for the trust placed in ATA to continue its cooperation with NATO in public diplomacy and information dissemination.
Former Presidents of ATA
Robert Hunter, President of ATA (2003-2008)
Ambassador Hunter expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the event and praised the contributions of ATA members from various countries. He acknowledged the Assistant Secretary General’s insights and highlighted the importance of engaging youth in ATA’s activities. Ambassador Hunter emphasized the need for NATO to support Ukraine effectively amid congressional challenges in his own country. Reflecting on NATO’s evolution, he praised efforts to strengthen European security and expand partnerships. Despite challenges with Russia, he emphasized the importance of dialogue and maintaining solidarity within NATO. In conclusion, Ambassador Hunter urged continued efforts toward a more effective and purposeful future for the alliance, commending President Georgiou and ATA members worldwide.
Fabrizio Luciolli, President of ATA (2014-2020)
Dr. Fabrizio Luciolli, President of ATA (2014-2020) highlighted Italy’s extensive engagement with ATA, including hosting numerous General Assemblies and actively participating in Mediterranean affairs. Dr. Luciolli discussed Italy’s role in hosting the North Atlantic Council and emphasized the importance of amplifying ATA’s role in addressing evolving international security challenges, particularly disinformation and hybrid warfare. In Italy, efforts to counter propaganda and disinformation include partnerships with universities and journalist networks, supported by NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division. Dr. Luciolli also mentioned hosting the Special Group on the Mediterranean in Rome to address conflicts and instability in the region. He proposed that the final declaration of the Washington summit recognize ATA’s contributions over the past 70 years, building upon previous acknowledgments received during the 2016 Warsaw Summit.
James Townsend, President of ATA (2020-2023)
Mr. James Townsend, President of ATA (2020-2023), conveyed greetings from the Atlantic Council of the United States and extended congratulations on ATA’s 70th anniversary. He emphasized the indispensable role of ATA in today’s context, suggesting that if ATA didn’t exist, efforts would be underway to establish it due to its crucial importance to the Alliance. Mr. Townsend underscored the urgency for ATA to become more operationally engaged, particularly in partnership with NATO’s Public Diplomacy Division (PDD), to effectively counter Russian propaganda and disinformation. Mr. Townsend stressed the need for a new, robust relationship with PDD, highlighting the necessity for strategic planning to prioritize this collaboration and establish a new financial framework between ATA and PDD. He emphasized the importance of ATA serving as an operational adjunct to PDD, especially amidst the ongoing conflict in Europe, to combat disinformation effectively. Looking forward to the Washington summit, Mr. Townsend expressed optimism for productive side events and urged ATA’s board to meet the challenges ahead, envisioning a future where both organizations work closely together and achieve significant progress.
Solomon Passy, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bulgaria (2001-2005)
Dr. Solomon Passy, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bulgaria (2001-2005) highlighted the importance of collective action in countering propaganda and preserving democratic values within the Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA). He emphasized the need for unity in addressing the significant challenges posed by misinformation, particularly from Russian sources. Additionally, he called for NATO to include a commitment to combating propaganda in its final communique, underlining the crucial role of ATA in this effort. He expressed optimism for the future of ATA and its upcoming Athens summit, reiterating Bulgaria’s support for the organization’s endeavors under President’s Georgiou leadership.
Werner Fasslabend, Vice President of ATA
Dr. Werner Fasslabend, Vice President of ATA, reflected on the historical significance of NATO and its enduring importance in today’s geopolitical landscape. He shared personal experiences growing up near the Iron Curtain, highlighting the profound impact of NATO’s mission in ensuring stability and security in Europe. Dr. Fasslabend emphasized NATO’s pivotal role in promoting freedom and independence, particularly in central and eastern European countries following the end of the Cold War. Acknowledging the evolving security challenges, Dr. Fasslabend underscored the need for NATO to adapt and expand its focus beyond traditional defense to include safeguarding freedom of navigation and information. He stressed the importance of collective action and cooperation, noting the increasing role of Europe, the European Union, and transatlantic partnerships in addressing global security challenges. Dr. Fasslabend called for greater investment in security and enhanced cooperation among NATO member countries and partners. He emphasized the vital role of ATA in shaping narratives and explaining the importance of NATO to civil society, envisioning a future of strengthened collaboration and collective resilience.
Ms. Annicka Engblom, President of the Swedish Atlantic Council
Ms. Annicka Engblom, President of the Swedish Atlantic Council, discussed Sweden’s recent accession to NATO, highlighted the role of the Swedish Atlantic Council in promoting transatlantic cooperation, emphasized ongoing public education about NATO membership, and expressed support for Ukraine’s NATO aspirations. She concluded with gratitude for the warm welcome to Sweden as a new member of the Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA).
Ms. Anna Van Zoest, Director of the Netherlands Atlantic Association and ATA Board Member
Ms. Anna Van Zoest, Executive Director of the Netherlands Atlantic Association, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak and reflected on the historical context of The Hague, where the ATA was founded in 1954. She underscored the significance of The Hague’s international status and its alignment with the principles of international law and cooperative security. Ms. Van Zoest highlighted the ATA’s role as a civil society movement, complementing governmental cooperation structures within NATO, alongside other international organizations. She emphasized the importance of promoting solidarity and cooperation among ATA member associations, echoing the collaborative spirit of the organization’s founding principles. Furthermore, Ms. Van Zoest discussed the ATA’s commitment to education and public debate, aiming to foster understanding and engagement with transatlantic issues. She expressed eagerness for future gatherings and exchanges within the ATA community, citing upcoming meetings in Athens and other locations. In conclusion, Ms. Van Zoest reiterated the value of learning from one another and exchanging experiences within the ATA network. She emphasized the collective efforts of the organization in advancing its mission and fostering transatlantic cooperation.
President of Atlantic Association of Young Political Leaders (1995-1999), Mr. Philippe Gervais Philippe Gervais, President of the Atlantic Association of Young Political Leaders (1995-1999), highlighted the diverse backgrounds of individuals involved in the association and their subsequent rise to prominent political positions. Mr. Gervais emphasized the organization’s role in fostering shared values across party lines within nations and promoting Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA) principles beyond NATO borders, particularly in countries transitioning from communism. He acknowledged the challenges of bridging political divides in some nations but praised the efforts made to build trust and cooperation. Mr. Gervais encouraged the revitalization of the Atlantic Association of Young Political Leaders under President Georgiou’s leadership, emphasizing its unique contribution to political engagement and international collaboration. He proposed a reunion of AYPL at the next ATA meeting in 2025, aiming to reignite the organization’s legacy and complement the work of the Youth of Atlantic Treaty Association (YATA).
President of YATA, Ms. Selin Yilmaz
Ms. Selin Yilmaz, President of YATA, highlighted the organization’s role in transatlantic affairs, recognizing ATA’s foresight in engaging youth. She emphasized YATA’s diversity and commitment to ATA’s values, expressing gratitude for her second term and readiness to support ATA. Ms. Yilmaz affirmed their dedication to ATA’s success.
You can watch the entire discussion here
