5-7-2023 (OSLO) NATO allies have reached an agreement to extend Jens Stoltenberg’s term as secretary-general by an additional year. Stoltenberg, expressing his gratitude, tweeted, “Honoured by NATO Allies’ decision to extend my term as Secretary General until 1 October 2024. The transatlantic bond between Europe & North America has ensured our freedom & security for nearly 75 years, and in a more dangerous world, our Alliance is more important than ever.”
The decision, made prior to an upcoming summit of NATO leaders in Vilnius, reflects the political sensitivity of the current moment for the alliance. It also highlights the difficulty in finding a high-profile candidate who is available and acceptable to all alliance members.
Having served as the chief of the defensive alliance since 2014, the former Norwegian prime minister, Jens Stoltenberg, has earned widespread respect for his composed demeanor under pressure and his ability to navigate the intricacies of a large and diverse alliance.
Initially, in 2017, allies had extended the secretary-general’s term until the end of September 2020. Subsequently, in 2019, they further pushed the date to September 2022. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, another extension was granted, which was set to expire in September 2023.
In recent months, allies have informally considered various candidates, including Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, but ultimately decided to once again extend the tenure of the long-serving secretary-general.
