WHEN SMALL BECOMES BIG – FIFTEEN YEARS OF SLOVENIA IN NATO

Abstract This paper analyzes Slovenia’s membership of NATO from an external, rather regional perspective. The conceptual context is based on theories of international relations, simplifying the understanding of developments related to the NATO integration processes. The methodology used for this analysis is mainly qualitative research, by means of several primary and secondary sources. In this context, the paper contributes to debates on whether small states serve as consistent security providers in the Alliance; hence, it examines Slovenia’s case in its efforts to be a reliable member of the Alliance. Correspondingly, it studies Slovenia’s attempts and its role in the Euro-Atlantic efforts of the Western Balkan countries. Likewise, the paper further examines to what extent, using the large organization as a platform, Slovenia pursues its own national interests, contributes to achieving the NATO ambitions of neighbouring countries, and strengthens regional stability. After some preliminary arguments, the paper briefly describes Slovenia’s integration path, from Yugoslavia to NATO. It then elaborates Slovenian engagements in the neighbourhood, before attempting to provide a short illustration of the role of Slovenia as an advocate of the region. The paper concludes that, despite its size and scope, Slovenia provides specific capacities that have verified the country as a respected member of the Alliance. Key words Slovenia, NATO, region, Balkan, membership.