This chapter examines MUST's general representation of NATO, covering its view of NATO's role, power and the main actors within international relations. It shows that the description of NATO consistently suggests a representation imbued with positive connotations. Bearing in mind the self-articulated intention of intelligence to present facts with the goal of being value neutral, a representation imbued with positive connotations through language practice and values imply construction of a friend.

CONSTRUCTING NATO

In the eyes of the MUST, NATO is the most influential political actor in terms of war, military action and security issues within international relations. It is suggested in the estimates that NATO has the power and influence to decide which issues are articulated as security issues in the realm of international relations. Furthermore, it is suggested in the estimates that NATO determines how these security issues should be understood and approached for the international community at large. Finally, it is suggested in the estimates that these functions of NATO are desirable and suggest a representation of NATO as an indisputable friend.

THE REPRESENTATION OF NATO

The overall representation of NATO in the estimates is as a provider of stability and security. This representation of NATO involves a concept that this role is needed, wanted and appreciated by the rest of the international community.

In addition, NATO is framed as the most important international political actor for establishing and maintaining security: ‘NATO is the most important organisation in terms of security policy cooperation in Europe.’ This characteristic of NATO is not just seen in a European context; NATO's dominant role within international security is viewed as valid globally. The assigned role for NATO as formulating norms ranges from overall general security policy to standards for praxis in military cooperation.

The dominant role of NATO is also expressed in statements like ‘NATO is the norm for interoperability’. This outlook is also expressed in regard to the European context: ‘ESDP (and to a greater extent NATO) has a particular normative role for the development of [military] capabilities but also to maintain defence spending and defence investments at an acceptable level.’