NATO Formally Invites Finland and Sweden to Join the Alliance

On June 28, 2022, a significant development unfolded at the NATO summit in Madrid, where NATO extended formal invitations to Finland and Sweden to join the alliance. This landmark decision came after Turkey agreed to lift its veto on their membership applications, an outcome negotiated through intensive diplomatic discussions held on the sidelines of the summit.

Background

Finland and Sweden, both historically non-aligned militarily, reconsidered their defense policies in light of the escalating security environment in Europe, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The conflict underscored vulnerabilities and prompted the two Nordic countries to seek the collective security guarantees offered by NATO membership.

Turkey’s Initial Objections

Turkey had initially opposed the membership bids of Finland and Sweden, citing concerns related to their alleged support of groups that Turkey considers terrorist organizations, including the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Ankara sought assurances from both countries to address these security concerns.

Diplomatic Resolution

After a series of negotiations, Turkey, Finland, and Sweden signed a trilateral memorandum, which outlined commitments from the latter two to address Turkey’s security concerns. These commitments included changes to their stance on certain organizations and an agreement on extradition policies. This diplomatic breakthrough led to Turkey withdrawing its objections, clearing the path for NATO’s invitation.

Significance

The accession of Finland and Sweden to NATO represents a strategic shift in the European security landscape. Their membership would significantly enhance NATO’s capabilities in the Baltic Sea region and strengthen the alliance against potential aggression. It also underscores NATO’s open-door policy and its adaptability to emerging security challenges.

Aftermath and Next Steps

Following the formal invitation, both countries engaged in accession talks and completed the required legal processes expected of new members. The accession protocol needed ratification by all NATO member states, a process anticipated to be smooth given the general support for their membership within the alliance. The move was seen as a definitive step in reinforcing collective security in Europe amid growing geopolitical tensions.