NATO Enlargement: Strategic Impact on Poland's Security
Abstract
Considering Poland's history and threats to its national security, Poland cannot guarantee its security alone. Polish national security depends upon ties to existing security organizations and other powerful nation-states. Because of its geo-strategic position and the nation's security structure, Poland should be part of a security structure that assures equilibrium with its potential threats. The same tenet plays an important role in the context of enlargement. After 1989, Poland was searching for security within NATO against Russian domination and German resurgence. Now, through the enlargement of NATO, Poland seeks a network of countries that are capable of facing new security challenges such as terrorism, proliferation of nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons, and at the same time, creating a stable, democratic and secure Europe. Throughout its history, Poland's security has been threatened by hostility of two powerful neighbors, Russia and Germany, and by its inability to forge alliances with other nations. Shortsighted policy and lack of understanding concerning regional alliances has affected Poland significantly four times in its history, ending in lost sovereignty and independence. The collapse of the Soviet Union gave Poland new independence and a chance to build its own security environment. Aimed at anchoring itself in reliable western security structures, Poland started to build good relations with its neighbors. By joining NATO in 1999, Poland achieved its basic security goals, but has not solved all of its security concerns. Knowing that security is not static, Poland must answer several questions: Is NATO membership sufficient for Poland's security considering its traditional and contemporary security concerns? If not, will NATO enlargement meet Poland's security needs? Conclusion: The enlargement of NATO has strategic importance for Poland's future security.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA491879
Entities
People
- Leszek Walczak
Organizations
- Marine Corps University