This study focuses on the rationale and role of the Centers of Excellence concept in view of NATO transformation, by using institutional logics. It finds that a strong NATO loyalty and an inclination to include non-traditional actors dominates the concept, but the logic of defense sovereignty (specifically national interest) has shone through in terms of organizing the respective COEs. In regard to NATO transformation, the concept seems to primarily play an identifying and supporting role, rather than having an operative or executing role in the transformation. Furthermore, the concept does not seem to have evolved according to NATO transformational strategic intentions, but the COE concept is nevertheless of strategic relevance in the sense that all the potentials and criteria for transforming NATO are fulfilled. The findings also carefully indicate that the concept is strategically important for NATO transformation, but its actual effect on transformation should be evaluated in separate studies.
The findings have some practical implications. States should govern their COEs, but be aware of the challenges that follow in times of austerity. National interest (under defense sovereignty) dominates the notion of who should organize a center. How this plays out in times of austerity should be looked at, specifically how this might affect filling personnel warrants (PE) and live up to the obligations nations have agreed to in MOU or technical/functional agreements. The concept might also be exposed to conflict between national and NATO interests, the risks of which should be continuously mitigated.
The empirical findings reveal some possible opportunities that the informants perceive as natural to look into. These opportunities are: engaging more actively with NGOs, and exploit the relationship to the fullest through the COE concept; use the COE concept to advance closer cooperation between NATO and external partners like the EU and PfP countries; and assess how and where the COEs can be given concrete roles in (ongoing) threats and operations. This will exploit the experts' knowledge in realistic scenarios, and hopefully revitalize the COE concepts role in transformation and in NATO.
Sean Lobo currently works as an adviser for the Norwegian Atlantic Committee. He just graduated in political science (Uni. Oslo), and has four years of service in the Norwegian Armed Forces.
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July 6, 2012
Lawrence Efana
In my mind, I agree with the perspectives given in the "CoEs.pdf": a very fine paper indeed! The possible or fruitful thing on the part of NATO is, the probability that, with the decision to transform more and more, it stands to learn whether or not to be 'totally' and or 'selectively' dependent on the rationale of centers of excellence. A wise room to structure policy choice.
'Transformation' is all that begins well and so should end well! It is a bold attempt at more open-door policy approach in which a variety of values and institutions will have to catch-up gradually to build-up workable consensus spirit and that must task the traditions of NATO's logics in a world that there is no option than seek peace. It would do well if the conceptual expression works in all interests hence plays 'identifying', 'supporting' and 'executing' roles. Variations in author's empirical cases for illustrative reason, certainly leave lessons of significance for formation of values. Because the theoretical frame as well as method are so balance. There are no extremes to be afraid of.
I like the way the author liberally-cautious though, shows enough concern, which is easy to read from arguments drawn from what otherwise soundly looks a four-figure table logically derived: "sovereignty versus solidarity" cum "exclusiveness versus pluralism". This gives much "food-for-thought" for the larger argument: the global), rather than narrow: European membership countries). Let me hope I have not got it all wrong! As of now the EU is also increasingly stepping-up to qualify as a near-perfect COE structure, then we look for same in Asia, across Russia, Middle-East and North Africa, Sub-Sahara Africa, North and South America - all crowned by the UN. I mean to emphasize that we must never stop dreaming about peace in the world and several ways in which proponent can construct possibilities.
The COE way to look at the probability is indeed humbling for the military, so there is hope! This is no review but light comment by one deeply enthusiazed!