Definition:
Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty (1949) establishes the principle of collective defence, stating that an armed attack against one NATO member is considered an attack against all members.
It has only been invoked once—in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States.
Significance:
Deterrence Mechanism: Ensures mutual protection, discouraging aggression against any member state.
Strategic Unity: Strengthens geopolitical ties among NATO countries and enhances military cooperation.
Contemporary Context:
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has revitalized interest in NATO’s protective umbrella.
Finland joined NATO in April 2023.
Sweden followed in 2024, abandoning decades of military neutrality.
Rising tensions in Eastern Europe have led many countries to reaffirm their commitment to NATO and its Article 5 provision.
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