NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is considering the possibility of extending his term, as several senior officials from member countries openly support the idea. Stoltenberg, who has already had his term prolonged three times, is scheduled to step down in September after nine years in the position. The importance of NATO has been heightened by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, finding a successor who can gain consensus among the 31 member countries has proved challenging.
When asked if he had been convinced to remain in his role during a recent visit to Washington, Stoltenberg stated that the decision lies with the 31 allies. The selection of the NATO Secretary-General traditionally involves the support of the United States, the alliance’s predominant power.
Although Stoltenberg has expressed that he is not seeking another extension, he has refrained from stating what he would do if asked to stay on. British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has openly expressed his interest in the position, while Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is seen as a potential contender, despite denying her candidacy.
Frederiksen, however, described the idea of Stoltenberg continuing in his role as a positive solution. She stated, “I very much like my job and I intend to keep it. So no, I am not on my way to NATO.”
It is important for NATO members to select a successor who possesses top-level political influence, particularly with the ongoing conflict at the alliance’s doorstep. Many countries also believe it is time for NATO to have its first female leader, which brings attention to Frederiksen. However, some NATO members are displeased with Denmark’s defense spending, falling short of the alliance’s goal of 2% of GDP. Additionally, some argue that having a NATO Secretary-General from a Nordic country for the third consecutive time is not ideal.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius supports extending Stoltenberg’s term if a consensus for a successor is not reached. Finnish Defence Minister Antti Kaikkonen also finds the option of an extension favorable.
In conclusion, NATO is facing challenges in selecting a successor for outgoing Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. The decision ultimately lies with the 31 member countries, and while some potential candidates have emerged, reaching a consensus has proven difficult.
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