As reported by Politico, NATO is quietly weakening its stance on climate, gender, and diversity in internal documents — a precautionary move designed to avoid potential backlash from the U.S. administration. While some may consider this a pragmatic strategy to maintain cohesion among all 32 member states, it signals a dangerous step away from values the Alliance has long claimed to uphold.

Terms such as “green technologies” are reportedly being replaced with “innovative technologies,” while “climate” is reframed merely as part of the “operational environment.” Even more alarming, language relating to “gender” or the “Women, Peace and Security” agenda is being stripped out entirely by those seeking unanimous approval, including from the U.S.

Let’s be clear: this is not a matter of political preference or just different use of words. These adjustments are nothing more or less than a withdrawal from critical aspects of modern security policy. Climate security, inclusive leadership and human-centered approaches are not optional extras but essential elements of strong, adaptive armed forces that are fit for today’s challenges.

If NATO no longer prioritizes these issues, who will?

Perhaps this is finally the moment for the European Union to stop repeating that “NATO is dealing with it” and start acting decisively. Europe must lead in protecting the social and environmental dimensions of defence, not as side concerns, but as pillars of a secure and just society.

More worrying still: is this only the beginning? If climate and gender are no longer acceptable topics, what will be sacrificed tomorrow to maintain transatlantic alignment? Will the next compromises touch on working conditions, fundamental rights, or even the right of association for military personnel?

EUROMIL stands firm. Our commitment to democratic values, human rights, and inclusive, forward-looking armed forces cannot and will not be diluted. Security without values is no security at all.

Emmanuel Jacob, President

Image: NATO via Flickr