Results achieved in informing society

Since establishment of LATO in 2000, the main aim has been to increase level of knowledge about NATO. In 2000 support to NATO in the Latvian society was approximately 50%. Currently there is stable support to NATO – around 60% of inhabitants of Latvia support membership in NATO. It is necessary to continue public discussions about the security policy, thus increasing awareness about the role of Latvia in NATO.

Currently there are 200 members in LATO. Regional Branches in Rēzekne and Ogre are successfully implementing their activities. Home page www.lato.lv in Latvian and English is functioning to provide regular updated information about LATO activities. LATO Information Centre provides with various materials on security and defence issues, mainly from NATO.

LATO has organised more than 30 public seminars and discussions with people in Riga and regions of Latvia, 20 public campaigns and many youth activities together with Latvian Transatlantic Youth Club. During 4 years there have been over 400 publications in mass media.

The work of LATO has been highly appreciated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defence. In 2003 has received letters of appreciation for investing in strengthening state independence and promoting public support to Latvia’s integration in NATO.

LATO international achievements

LATO main aims in the international cooperation are developing understanding about the role of Latvia as NATO member and promote democratic processes in the neighbouring countries.

LATO is an associated member of Atlantic Treaty Association (ATA). In 2002 Baltic Atlantic Treaty Association (BATA) was established together with sister organisations in Lithuania and Estonia.

International conferences where internationally recognized experts participate are organised every year. Over 20 public seminars have been organised, where representatives of international research institutions and NATO have participated. LATO representatives have taken part in over 50 different security policy forums in Europe and the USA.