| Summary: | Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited === In the spring of 1999, The Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary all entered the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). These were the first former Warsaw Pact members to gain NATO accession since the Cold War ended with the dismemberment of the Soviet Union and the disintegration of the Warsaw Pact between 1989 and 1991. Now, seven more states are near the end of their accession talks. Barring unforeseen events, all are expected to join the alliance in 2004. This thesis studies the 1999 round of NATO accessants, particularly in the short time period since they achieved membership, and garners lessons for the new round of NATO candidates. It notes other significant events that led to NATO's enlargement, including NATO's post-Cold War transformation and the war in the Balkans along with courageous leadership. The thesis summarizes common themes, identifies differences, and suggests solutions that could be implemented for the next round of NATO entrants, as well as for NATO as a whole, based on the three cases studied. It makes policy recommendations where appropriate.
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