NATO Association of Canada

The NATO Association of Canada (NAOC; French: Association canadienne pour l'OTAN), formerly known as the Atlantic Council of Canada, is a non-governmental organization established in 1966. Its primary mission is to promote peace, prosperity, and security through knowledge and understanding of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Canada.

Purpose

The NAOC focuses on educating Canadians about the role and importance of NATO in maintaining global peace and security. It aims to foster a deeper understanding of NATO's contributions to the stability of the Euro-Atlantic area and its impact on Canadian security and defense policy.

Activities

To fulfill its mission, the NAOC organizes various events, including conferences, seminars, roundtable discussions, and speaker dinners. These events provide opportunities for Canadians to engage with international security issues and learn about NATO's role in addressing global challenges. The association also publishes articles and research materials on topics related to peace, prosperity, and security.

Governance

The NAOC is affiliated with the Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA), which coordinates similar organizations across NATO member states and Partnership for Peace nations. It operates with a team of professional staff, volunteers, and interns across several major Canadian cities.

Legal Status

The NATO Association of Canada is a registered charity with a Business Registration Number of 119011872RR0001. This status reflects its commitment to public education and advocacy without financial gain.

Leadership

As of recent updates, the organization is chaired by former Minister of Defence David Collenette, with Robert Baines serving as its President and CEO.

International Context

Canada's engagement with NATO is a cornerstone of its security and defense policy. The NAOC plays an important role in informing Canadians about Canada's commitments to NATO and the alliance's evolving role in addressing modern security challenges.