The Effectiveness of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in an Era of Adaptation: The Role of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Administrative Tribunal

Abstract

This chapter discusses the role that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (nato) Administrative Tribunal (at) plays in the work of the political and military alliance charged with defending the security of its 29 members in Europe and North America. It explores how the at’s creation in 2013 has contributed to organizational success, played a valuable role in upholding respect for the rule of law, and driven change within the organization. nato has a peculiar legal structure that must take into account the interests of a wide range of stakeholders, including military and political elements. The successful work of nato is dependent upon effective and continual adaptation, both internally, with regard to its regulatory frameworks, and externally, with regard to nato’s primary mission of defense and deterrence. Success in the process of internal adaptation is not predicated only upon the smooth functioning of the at, but also upon the effectiveness of the entire civilian staff member complaint resolution process. In the future, nato will continue to invest in its system of dispute resolution and rely upon the at to help demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law.