NATO's role within the Mediterranean region

Abstract

This dissertation intends to provide insight on the role of NATO within the Mediterranean region. Although this topic has been explored in research worldwide, this dissertation aims at contributing to the knowledge by providing an insight on the relationship of NATO with the Mediterranean, in light of recent events set in motion by the Arab Spring. The dissertation follows NATO through its initial stages, post-WWII in a war torn Europe and the beginning of what was to become known as the Cold War. Furthermore, this dissertation highlights the transformations that the Atlantic Alliance experienced as a result of a post-Cold War security environment which created different challenges and opportunities to be tackled by NATO. The dissertation analyses the structures that were implemented by NATO throughout the post-Cold War environment, highlighting its political and military endeavours. The Mediterranean ls examined, in order to expose the challenges which are currently present in the region and how these challenges are affecting the Northern and Southern shores. The political and military role of NATO in the Mediterranean will be analysed throughout the dissertation against the backdrop of recent events which have unveiled in the region. In the concluding chapter recommendations are also put forward.