Joint Warfighting and Readiness: DoD Execution of the Warsaw Initiative Program

Abstract : Who Should Read This Report and Why? Civil service and uniformed officers responsible for developing and executing policy for the Warsaw Initiative program should read this report. The report discusses possible additional legislative authorities that might provide benefits to DoD implementation of the Warsaw Initiative program. Also, the report discusses the need to develop and issue guidance that will ensure consistent execution of the Warsaw Initiative program by the combatant commands. Background. In January 1994, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) launched the Partnership for Peace program, which provides assistance to countries seeking cooperative military and peacekeeping relations with NATO. On July 7, 1994, in Warsaw, Poland, President Clinton announced his commitment to provide U.S. assistance to new democratic countries for the purpose of advancing Partnership for Peace goals. That speech led to development of the Warsaw Initiative program. The Warsaw Initiative program is a U.S. program that the Departments of State and Defense manage to advance closer relations and military interoperability between NATO and countries committed to democratic principles. President Clinton requested that Congress commit $100 million in FY 1996 to the program; Congress has funded the Warsaw Initiative program each year since FY 1996. Within DoD, multiple offices oversee management and implementation of the Warsaw Initiative program. The Assistant Secretary of Defense (International Security Policy) is responsible for development, coordination, and oversight of policy and other activities related to the Warsaw Initiative program. Under the direction of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (International Security Policy), the Defense Security Cooperation Agency manages the program. DoD combatant commanders and program managers are responsible for executing the Warsaw Initiative program funds provided by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.