WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), co-chairs of the Senate NATO Observer Group (SNOG), recently introduced bipartisan legislation to establish the Senate NATO Observer Group as a new body within the Senate dedicated to addressing and advising on matters related to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This initiative underscores the Senators' commitment to strengthening the vital transatlantic alliance and ensuring robust Congressional oversight and engagement on NATO-related issues.

The Senate NATO Observer Group will serve as a crucial forum for addressing NATO matters that span the jurisdictions of multiple Senate committees. Its core functions will include advising the Senate on issues related to NATO, particularly concerning NATO enlargement. The group will also facilitate close interactions between the executive branch, the Senate, NATO, member countries, and candidate countries during negotiations on NATO enlargement.

“As the global landscape continues to evolve, the importance of NATO to American security and global stability cannot be overstated,” said Senator Tillis. “Establishing the Senate NATO Observer Group will enhance our ability to proactively engage with our allies, address challenges, and ensure that the U.S. remains a strong and reliable partner within the alliance.” 

“Now more than ever, it's imperative that the United States work closely with NATO to respond to global threats, including Russia’s unprovoked war in Ukraine,” said Senator Shaheen. “This legislation to make the Senate NATO Observer Group permanent will enshrine bipartisan focus and support for NATO within the Senate. I am pleased to support this effort and make the Senate NATO Observer Group a permanent convener for conversation between the Senate and NATO Allies to strengthen transatlantic bonds.”

Senators Tillis and Shaheen re-established the Senate NATO Observer Group in 2018 and have led bipartisan efforts in the Senate in support of the transatlantic Alliance. The group aims to monitor various aspects of the NATO alliance, including defense spending, military capabilities, counter-terrorism efforts, enlargement, and the ability to address unconventional warfare threats. 

During the 119th Congress, the Senate NATO Observer Group will operate as established by the Majority and Minority Leaders in the Congressional Record. This bipartisan legislation would require that, beginning with the 120th Congress, the Majority and Minority Leaders will each appoint no more than seven Senators to the Group within 60 days of the first session convening. Each leader will also appoint one co-chairperson from their respective appointees. 

The bill also authorizes co-chairs and one designated staff member to engage in foreign travel for official purposes, provided such travel is authorized by the other co-chair. The Office of Interparliamentary Services of the Senate will provide administrative support and protocol functions to the Group. 

The Senate NATO Observer Group will be required to submit an annual report to the Majority and Minority Leaders of the Senate and the Chairperson and Ranking Member of the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate. This report will detail the Group's activities during the preceding fiscal year, including travel, legislative efforts, and public diplomacy initiatives. 

Read the bill HERE. 

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