Organisation

The North Atlantic Council is composed of the Permanent Representatives of the member states and chaired by the Secretary General. It is the most important decision-making body within NATO. It is the only body established by the North Atlantic Treaty. The Council has a right to establish subordinated bodies in order to promote the fulfilment of the goals set by the Washington Treaty.

Each member nation is represented on the North Atlantic Council by an Ambassador or Permanent Representative. Permanent Representatives have the task to represent their respective country’s position in NATO and to protect its interests, as well as to inform their capitals on events taking place in NATO. Permanent Representatives are supported in their work by their respective national delegations.

The Secretary General is an acknowledged senior international statesman nominated by the member states as Chairman of the North Atlantic Council. The Secretary General is responsible for promoting and directing the process of consultation and decision-making. He may propose items for discussion and decision. He has a crucial role to play in the process of developing NATO’s image..

The work of the Military Committee is undertaken by the Military Representatives of the member states, acting on behalf of their Chiefs of Defence. The Military Committee is supervised by the Council and is responsible for the overall conduct of the military affairs of the Alliance, as well as for the efficient operation of agencies falling under the competence of the Military Committee.

The work of the North Atlantic Council and its subordinate committees is supported by an International Staff consisting of personnel from member states, either recruited directly by the Organisation or (in the case of senior positions) seconded by their governments. The members of the International Staff are responsible to the Secretary General.

The International Military Staff is responsible for preparing plans, assessments and recommendations on military matters, as well as for preparing and executing respective decisions. The International Military Staff is headed by a General/Flag officer, selected by the Military Committee from candidates nominated by member nations. Like in the case of the International Staff, the personnel of the International Military Staff is seconded by member nations.