On 18 March 2012, winners of the Transatlantic Research Study Award Tour joined the ATA in Brussels for a week long study tour. The winners of this competition were chosen by a panel of judges based on an essay that they submitted. The essays focused on new security challenges such as energy, food security, and cyber space.

During their study tour, the winners, in conjunction with a few Europeans, visited a number of key Transatlantic institutions and individuals representing the EU, and NATO. Participants also heard from a variety of speakers which challenged participants to think about the future of security, and their countries’ impact on the world.  Speakers came from a variety of different backgrounds, and participants were able to have interactive discussions with people from NATO, ISIS Europe, the Royal Institute for International Relations, NATO Parliamentary Assembly, and the South Asia Democratic Forum.

Another key component of the Transatlantic Research Study Award Tour was a discussion which revolved around the future of NATO, and Transatlantic Security. The purpose of this activity was to facilitate a lively discussion on the future of security with a diverse set of views. This was done through the creation of a statement.

Before attending the Tour, individuals were requested to create a statement on their beliefs about the future of security and NATO. During the week, participants discussed, debated, and explored each participant’s statement. Then, at the end of the week, the participants were challenged to create a common statement. In creating this common statement, participants were forced to explore their different views and work together to find a common viewpoint on the future of security.

(To View the Common Statement Click Here)

Following the creation of this statement, individuals presented at their award ceremony. This ceremony was held at the Club Prince Albert in Brussels on March 23rd 2012 and honored the winners of the first Annual Transatlantic Research Study Award Tour.

Video interviews were also conducted during the week and will be made available on Youth ATA Youtube channel shortly.

In addition to the ATA and NATO, the program is beign organized in cooperation with the Youth Atlantic Treaty Association.