NATO Summit - Everything You Want to Know

What is NATO:  NATO stands for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which is an intergovernmental military alliance based on the North Atlantic Treaty that was signed on April 4, 1949.

The Organization constitutes a system of Collective Defence whereby its member states agree to a mutual defense in response to an attack by an external party. NATO's headquarters are in Brussels, Belgium.

There are 28 member states (dark blue) across North America and Europe that make up NATO.

Leaders from around the world are gathering in Chicago this weekend for an important diplomatic summit hosted by President Barack Obama. The meetings will be held May 20-21. This will be the first time an American city other than Washington has hosted a NATO summit.

NATO host committee has organized lectures on foreign affairs, contests for students, special dining programs and much more.

What is a NATO Summit? A NATO summit is a summit meeting that is regarded as a periodic opportunity for Heads of State and Heads of Government of NATO member countries to evaluate and provide strategic direction for Alliance activities.

Chicago has never hosted anything like this meeting, which starts on Sunday. It will draw representatives from 50 countries, including leaders of the 28 members of the military alliance. The two-day summit will also draw protestors from around the United States and beyond. Most stand to protest against the NATO-led war in Afghanistan and economic equality. This will be a test for for Chicago and the national Occupy movement.

What will the NATO Summit discuss? They are expected to discuss plans for the war in Afghanistan and to announce the completion of the first phase of a Europe-based missile-defense system.

Are We Safe? In addition to members of the Secret Service, Chicago has about 1,000 active duty U.S. troops and 2,000 National Guard Members that will be providing logistical support. The 12,500 Chicago officer department will commit about a third of its force to the event and the protestors.  There will also be additional officers from other states helping out.

About $1 million worth of new riot gear, consisting of gas masks, tear gas, helmets, and face shields, armor for police horses, have been ordered.  Also, there is always a risk of terrorism when there is a gathering of world leaders. However, Chicago has been preparing for nearly a year to take the right precautions.

(http://news.yahoo.com/chicago-braces-violence-nato-summit-021854168--finance.html)
(http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303505504577404680135088936.html)