National Defence Personnel Directors from NATO countries met in Brussels to examine how Allies can recruit, retain, mobilise and regenerate the military workforce required for a more demanding security environment. The meeting was the second annual gathering of senior national officials responsible for defence personnel.
Discussions focused on the availability of both active and reserve forces and on the specialised skills required for high-intensity warfare. Participants considered how national personnel systems may need to adapt if Allies are expected to expand forces more quickly or sustain operations for longer periods.
NATO’s Defence Planning Process was identified as one mechanism through which the Alliance can support national workforce planning. Officials also discussed new approaches to recruitment and retention as armed forces compete with civilian employers for personnel with technical and specialist skills.
The meeting was co-chaired by NATO Assistant Secretary General for Defence Policy and Planning Nick Catsaras and Deputy Chair of the NATO Military Committee Lieutenant General Winston P. Brooks. Participants also stressed the long-term social value of recognising those who serve or have served in Allied armed forces.