Introduction
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is a political and military alliance established in 1949 with the aim of providing collective defense against potential threats to member countries. Currently, there are 31 NATO members, including countries from North America and Europe. The members pledge to defend each other in case of an attack, and they also work together on security and defense-related issues.
The 31 NATO members are Albania, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Macedonia, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
NATO member countries vary in terms of their geography, population, and economic development. Some members, such as the United States, France, and Germany, are global powers with significant economic and military resources, while others, such as Albania and Montenegro, are smaller countries with more limited capabilities. Despite their differences, all NATO members share a commitment to democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law.
NATO has played an important role in promoting peace and stability in Europe and beyond. The alliance has been involved in a range of operations, including peacekeeping missions, humanitarian interventions, and counterterrorism efforts.
NATO Members
Country | NATO Country | NATO Spending | NATO Date of Accession | Number of Active Military Personnel |
---|---|---|---|---|
Albania | Yes | 241 million | April 1, 2009 | 7,500 |
Belgium | Yes | 6 billion | August 24, 1949 | 5,900 |
Bulgaria | Yes | 1 billion | March 29, 2004 | 36,950 |
Canada | Yes | 27 billion | August 24, 1949 | 66,500 |
Croatia | Yes | 1 billion | April 1, 2009 | 16,700 |
Czech Republic | Yes | 4 billion | March 12, 1999 | 26,600 |
Denmark | Yes | 6 billion | August 24, 1949 | 15,400 |
Estonia | Yes | 771 million | March 29, 2004 | 7,200 |
France | Yes | 57 billion | August 24, 1949 | 203,250 |
Germany | Yes | 63 billion | May 6, 1955 | 183,400 |
Greece | Yes | 8 billion | February 18, 1952 | 143,300 |
Hungary | Yes | 3 billion | March 12, 1999 | 34,200 |
Iceland | Yes | August 24, 1949 | 250 | |
Italy | Yes | 33 billion | August 24, 1949 | 161,550 |
Latvia | Yes | 835 million | March 29, 2004 | 8,750 |
Lithuania | Yes | 1 billion | March 29, 2004 | 23,000 |
Luxembourg | Yes | 462 million | August 24, 1949 | 410 |
Montenegro | Yes | 92 million | June 5, 2017 | 2,350 |
Netherlands | Yes | 15 billion | August 24, 1949 | 33,600 |
Norway | Yes | 8 billion | August 24, 1949 | 25,400 |
Poland | Yes | 15 billion | March 12, 1999 | 114,050 |
Portugal | Yes | 4 billion | August 24, 1949 | 27,250 |
Republic of Macedonia | Yes | 209 million | March 27, 2020 | 8,000 |
Romania | Yes | 5 billion | March 29, 2004 | 71,500 |
Slovakia | Yes | 2 billion | March 29, 2004 | 17,950 |
Slovenia | Yes | 745 million | March 29, 2004 | 6,950 |
Spain | Yes | 15 billion | May 30, 1982 | 122,850 |
Turkey | Yes | 13 billion | February 18, 1952 | 355,200 |
United Kingdom | Yes | 73 billion | August 24, 1949 | 153,200 |
United States of America | Yes | 811 billion | August 24, 1949 | 1,395,350 |
Aspiring NATO Members
There are several countries that aspire to become members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) due to concerns over their national security or geopolitical aspirations. The aspirants include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Ukraine. These countries have expressed their desire to join NATO and have taken steps to meet the requirements for membership.
To become a NATO member, a country must meet certain criteria, including having a stable democratic system, respecting human rights and the rule of law, having a functioning market economy, and being able to contribute to the alliance’s collective defense capabilities. The process for joining NATO involves a series of steps, including submitting a membership application, undergoing a review process, and negotiating a membership action plan.
The decision to admit a new member to NATO is made by the alliance’s member countries. This decision is based on a country’s ability to meet the membership criteria, its willingness to contribute to the alliance’s goals, and its compatibility with NATO’s values and principles. The admission process can be lengthy and may involve political negotiations, public opinion considerations, and strategic assessments.
NATO enlargement is a contentious issue, with some member countries and other stakeholders expressing concerns about the potential implications of admitting new members. These concerns include the potential for increased tensions with neighboring countries, the possibility of escalating conflicts, and the potential strain on the alliance’s resources.
NATO Membership by Country
Albania
NATO Country
Yes
241 million
Ranked in the World
#27
NATO Date of Accession
April 1, 2009
Number of Active Military Personnel
7,500
↓ 6.25%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#136
Belgium
NATO Country
Yes
6 billion
Ranked in the World
#13
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
5,900
↓ 76.4%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#142
Bulgaria
NATO Country
Yes
1 billion
Ranked in the World
#22
NATO Date of Accession
March 29, 2004
Number of Active Military Personnel
36,950
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#72
Bulgaria joined NATO in 2004, and since then, Bulgaria has been a committed ally in the pursuit of peace and stability in Europe and beyond. The importance of its strategic location between East and West Europe makes Bulgaria a vital player in NATO operations. The country contributes to the organization with its military personnel, equipment, airbases, and other resources. Additionally, Bulgaria has also hosted several exercises and training since joining the alliance. It is actively involved in strengthening the defense capabilities of aspiring NATO members like Georgia and Ukraine through assistance programs and educational initiatives. As a member of NATO, Bulgaria is well-positioned to continue playing an important role in creating a peaceful and secure environment across Europe.
Canada
NATO Country
Yes
27 billion
Ranked in the World
#6
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
66,500
↓ 1.34%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#55
Croatia
NATO Country
Yes
1 billion
Ranked in the World
#20
NATO Date of Accession
April 1, 2009
Number of Active Military Personnel
16,700
↑ 9.87%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#102
Czech Republic
NATO Country
Yes
4 billion
Ranked in the World
#16
NATO Date of Accession
March 12, 1999
Number of Active Military Personnel
26,600
↑ 6.83%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#87
The Czech Republic has been a member of NATO since 1999. The country has provided extensive contributions to both the military and political aspects of the Alliance, from its participation in operations in Afghanistan, Kosovo, and Iraq, to its active role in NATO's decision-making bodies. The Czech Republic's commitment to NATO is further demonstrated by its contributions to the organization's financial requirements, which have amounted to thousands of millions of euros over the last two decades. Furthermore, since joining the alliance, the Czech Republic has worked closely with other partner countries to promote regional security through joint exercises and initiatives. This commitment strengthens NATO ties in Central Europe and beyond while also reinforcing a sense of collective security as part of a larger international community.
Denmark
NATO Country
Yes
6 billion
Ranked in the World
#14
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
15,400
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#106
Denmark is a founding member of NATO. As part of its obligations to NATO, Denmark contributes to the collective defense of its members through joint military exercises, commitments in international operations, and deployments of combat forces. Denmark also plays an important role in NATO's efforts to strengthen global security through close cooperation with other countries and organizations. For example, Danish forces have been involved in several international missions such as Afghanistan, Iraq, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. In addition to this, Denmark has taken an active role in promoting democracy and security by supporting the development of civil society organizations across the world. Through its commitment to NATO, Denmark continues to demonstrate its leadership in fostering peace and stability in Europe and beyond.
Estonia
NATO Country
Yes
771 million
Ranked in the World
#24
NATO Date of Accession
March 29, 2004
Number of Active Military Personnel
7,200
↑ 1.41%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#139
France
NATO Country
Yes
57 billion
Ranked in the World
#4
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
203,250
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#21
France is one of the founding members of NATO, having joined the alliance in 1949. The strong ties between France and NATO have been reinforced by France's participation in a range of alliance activities over the years, including collective defense measures, peacekeeping operations, and arms control and disarmament initiatives. Furthermore, France contributes significantly to NATO's common funding budget as well as providing military personnel to coalition operations, taking part in NATO crisis management operations in Bosnia, Kosovo, and Afghanistan for instance. This demonstrates the firm commitment of France to NATO's collective security goals and mission.
Germany
NATO Country
Yes
63 billion
Ranked in the World
#3
NATO Date of Accession
May 6, 1955
Number of Active Military Personnel
183,400
↓ 0.05%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#26
Germany is an important member of NATO, having joined the alliance in 1955. As one of the three major powers in NATO, Germany plays a significant role in the organization's activities and aims to ensure peace and stability in the region. Since its accession, Germany has contributed significantly to NATO's military operations and continues to be at the forefront of efforts to strengthen the alliance. In recent years, Germany has also been active in promoting humanitarian initiatives under the auspices of NATO, demonstrating their commitment to international cooperation and security. Along with providing troops for various operations abroad, Germany also spends more on defense than many other NATO members, highlighting its importance as a contributor within the Alliance.
Greece
NATO Country
Yes
8 billion
Ranked in the World
#12
NATO Date of Accession
February 18, 1952
Number of Active Military Personnel
143,300
↑ 0.42%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#35
Greece joined NATO in 1952 and has played an important role in the organization ever since. Greece has contributed to NATO operations such as peacekeeping, disaster relief, and humanitarian aid. Additionally, Greece works closely with NATO allies on issues related to counterterrorism and defense modernization. Lately, Greece is playing a major role in addressing the migration crisis in Europe as well as regional security issues in the Balkans, Eastern Mediterranean, and the Black Sea region. By reinforcing its commitment to NATO, Greece has succeeded in fostering stability throughout the region by supporting key initiatives of its allies.
Hungary
NATO Country
Yes
3 billion
Ranked in the World
#18
NATO Date of Accession
March 12, 1999
Number of Active Military Personnel
34,200
↑ 23.02%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#75
As a NATO member since 1999, Hungary has played an important role in the organization by contributing to its collective defense policy. This includes providing troops for missions abroad; so far, Hungarian soldiers have served in operations such as Kosovo and Afghanistan. Additionally, Hungary has provided logistics support, training capabilities, and security assistance. Furthermore, Hungary also contributes financially to NATO operations through the payment of various fees and dues associated with membership.
Iceland
NATO Country
Yes
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
250
↑ INF%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#164
Italy
NATO Country
Yes
33 billion
Ranked in the World
#5
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
161,550
↓ 2.39%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#32
Italy joined NATO in 1949 and is one of the founding members of the alliance. As a NATO member, Italy contributes troops and resources to help promote international peace and security in Europe by providing collective defense for its allies. Italy has also taken an active role in NATO military operations, including in Afghanistan, Libya, and Iraq. They are also actively involved in promoting cooperation between NATO countries through development initiatives such as scientific research programs, joint military exercises, and collaborative intelligence sharing.
Latvia
NATO Country
Yes
835 million
Ranked in the World
#23
NATO Date of Accession
March 29, 2004
Number of Active Military Personnel
8,750
↑ 40%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#130
Latvia joined NATO in 2004, becoming one of the first Baltic states to do so, along with Estonia. This decision was a major step for Latvia in terms of security, as it gained access to NATO's collective defense capabilities, which is particularly beneficial due to its proximity to Russia. Through its membership, Latvia also participates in international operations led by NATO and has contributed personnel to several missions in Afghanistan and elsewhere. In addition to these military benefits, joining the Alliance has also helped Latvia to maintain political stability and develop economically. By being a part of the world's most powerful military alliance, Latvia provides itself with an additional layer of protection on top of its own national security efforts.
Lithuania
NATO Country
Yes
1 billion
Ranked in the World
#21
NATO Date of Accession
March 29, 2004
Number of Active Military Personnel
23,000
↑ 4.55%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#93
Luxembourg
NATO Country
Yes
462 million
Ranked in the World
#26
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
410
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#163
Montenegro
NATO Country
Yes
92 million
Ranked in the World
#29
NATO Date of Accession
June 5, 2017
Number of Active Military Personnel
2,350
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#151
Netherlands
NATO Country
Yes
15 billion
Ranked in the World
#8
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
33,600
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#77
The Netherlands is an active member of NATO, having joined in 1949 when the organization was founded. Since then, the Netherlands has contributed to NATO’s mission and history including through military forces and equipment, financial contributions, and participation in operations. Indeed, Dutch soldiers have played a crucial role in NATO-led crisis response operations such as in Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq, and more recently Libya. The Netherlands has also provided significant funding for NATO missions over the years and currently contributes around 1 percent of its gross domestic product to defense spending.
Norway
NATO Country
Yes
8 billion
Ranked in the World
#11
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
25,400
↑ 13.65%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#89
Norway is one of the 31 member countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). As a founding member of NATO, Norway has been an active participant in the alliance since its establishment in 1949. Norway has also contributed to NATO's military operations, including peacekeeping missions, humanitarian interventions, and counterterrorism efforts. The country's strategic location in the North Atlantic has made it a key contributor to NATO's defense capabilities and maritime security.
Poland
NATO Country
Yes
15 billion
Ranked in the World
#7
NATO Date of Accession
March 12, 1999
Number of Active Military Personnel
114,050
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#43
Poland is a NATO member. It joined the alliance in 1999 and since then has actively engaged in numerous operations. In addition to military contributions, Poland also provides leadership within the organization through hosting conferences and meetings such as the Warsaw Summit in 2016. The summit was a landmark occasion as it focused on strategies to counter both traditional and hybrid threats to regional stability. At this meeting, it was agreed that more resources would be devoted to strengthening defense capabilities in Central and Eastern Europe. Since then, Poland continues to play an important role in NATO operations due to its strategic location close to Russia's borders.
Portugal
NATO Country
Yes
4 billion
Ranked in the World
#17
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
27,250
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#85
Portugal joined NATO in 1949 and has been a member ever since, providing a wide range of benefits to both Portugal and the other members of NATO. Portugal has a long history of contributing to international security efforts through their military contributions and by sharing their technological and defense expertise with other nations. Portugal has participated in numerous peacekeeping operations and exercises, as well as providing diplomatic support for other allied nations. In addition to these commitments, Portugal has provided economic assistance to many of its fellow member states through various programs such as the Global Security Fund. As a result, Portugal is viewed as an important partner for the security and stability of Europe, which contributes significantly to global security and prosperity.
Republic of Macedonia
NATO Country
Yes
209 million
Ranked in the World
#28
NATO Date of Accession
March 27, 2020
Number of Active Military Personnel
8,000
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#135
Romania
NATO Country
Yes
5 billion
Ranked in the World
#15
NATO Date of Accession
March 29, 2004
Number of Active Military Personnel
71,500
↑ 4.38%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#52
In 2004, Romania became an official member of NATO, joining the ranks of other European countries. As part of its NATO membership, Romania has contributed forces to international missions, such as the Kosovo Force, and has actively participated in NATO-led initiatives in the Black Sea region. Romania also contributes financially toward NATO by funding joint military exercises and supporting its allies' military modernization efforts. Furthermore, Romania plays an important role within the Alliance with its strategic geographic position, which gives it easy access to both Europe and Asia. As part of its mission to promote global security, Romania continues to uphold its commitment to NATO's goals and objectives.
Slovakia
NATO Country
Yes
2 billion
Ranked in the World
#19
NATO Date of Accession
March 29, 2004
Number of Active Military Personnel
17,950
↑ 13.25%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#100
Slovakia officially became a member of NATO in 2004, joining the alliance as one of seven Eastern European countries to join within that year. The accession process began in 2002 when Slovakia declared its intention to join the alliance. It has since become an active participant in NATO's mission and has consistently contributed to the organization's efforts, including taking part in NATO-led operations in Kosovo and Afghanistan. Furthermore, Slovakia has increased its defense spending every year since joining NATO, now reaching over 1% of its GDP. In recent years, Slovakia has also taken on a greater role within the alliance through its participation in multinational exercises and various strategic initiatives.
Slovenia
NATO Country
Yes
745 million
Ranked in the World
#25
NATO Date of Accession
March 29, 2004
Number of Active Military Personnel
6,950
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#140
Slovenia has been a member of NATO since 2004, after joining the alliance with seven other Eastern European countries. Since then, the small country has made important contributions to the alliance, dedicating resources and personnel to its defense efforts. Slovenia currently hosts more than 500 soldiers in its territory, most of whom are deployed in NATO-led missions throughout the world. Slovenia also provides training and logistical support for certain units stationed within its borders and the nation regularly participates in large-scale military drills and exercises with partner nations in order to maintain interoperability and readiness.
Spain
NATO Country
Yes
15 billion
Ranked in the World
#9
NATO Date of Accession
May 30, 1982
Number of Active Military Personnel
122,850
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#42
Spain has been a member of NATO since 1982 and has been committed to the collective defense of its fellow members and worked with other countries to promote global security and prosperity. The nation contributes financially and militarily, including providing troops for a variety of peacekeeping missions and participating in joint training exercises. Spain is also involved in various NATO initiatives such as the Mediterranean Dialogue, which promotes regional stability in the Mediterranean region through dialogue and collaboration. With its long history of involvement in international relations, Spain remains a key player in NATO operations today.
Turkey
NATO Country
Yes
13 billion
Ranked in the World
#10
NATO Date of Accession
February 18, 1952
Number of Active Military Personnel
355,200
- 0%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#15
United Kingdom
NATO Country
Yes
73 billion
Ranked in the World
#2
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
153,200
↑ 3.16%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#33
United States of America
NATO Country
Yes
811 billion
Ranked in the World
#1
NATO Date of Accession
August 24, 1949
Number of Active Military Personnel
1,395,350
↑ 0.52%
Vs 2021
Ranked in the World
#3
The United States has been a member of NATO since its founding in 1949, along with 11 other original members. As one of NATO's key members, the United States plays a critical role in providing diplomatic, economic, and military support to ensure the security and stability of Europe and North America. The U.S. contributes millions of dollars annually to fund various NATO missions and exercises around the world. As part of its commitment to NATO, the U.S. has provided troops to support allied operations as well as leading initiatives. The strong ties between the United States and other NATO countries have fostered a sense of trust and cooperation that is essential for maintaining peace and stability both within the alliance and beyond.
FAQs
How many countries are in NATO ?
There are currently 31 NATO allies.
What countries are in NATO ?
The 31 NATO countries are Albania, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Macedonia, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Is Belarus part of NATO ?
Belarus is not a NATO member. This is in big part due to its government’s authoritarian policies and lack of commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.
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