NATO FIELD SCHOOL PRESENTS
11/05/2025
NATO Field School Alumna Represents Program at 2025 NATO Youth Summit in Montenegro We were proud to see NATO Field School alumna Keiren McClelland represent the program at the NATO Youth Summit, held April 25 and 26 in Budva, Montenegro. Organized by NATO in partnership with the Atlantic Council of Montenegro, the summit brought together emerging leaders from across the Alliance to explore the future of peace, security, and transatlantic cooperation.
Day 1 Highlights: Insight, Innovation, and Intergenerational Dialogue One of the most thought-provoking panels focused on youth perspectives on defence and innovation. Keiren noted the importance of keeping expectations grounded in reality, identifying efficiencies through collaboration, and embracing new approaches even if they do not always succeed. Speakers encouraged young people to hold older generations accountable for the lack of education on defence while also asking informed questions to deepen understanding. Other panels explored NATO’s ongoing efforts to support Ukraine and build stronger partnerships. One session highlighted the Joint Analysis Training and Education Centre, where Ukrainian participants share their experiences from the war as part of NATO training efforts. Another panel on regional security emphasized Albania’s leadership in the Western Balkans, including recent collaboration with Croatia and Kosovo on joint defence procurement. Speakers also highlighted the need for more youth in senior roles, particularly in cybersecurity. Cybersecurity was a major theme of the day, with experts underscoring that technology must be supported by sound policy. As one panelist explained, cybersecurity is not just a technical issue but a human one.
Keiren’s first day at the summit featured a series of impactful discussions. During a Q&A with NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoană, participants were reminded that “words can do more damage than weapons” and that “the absence of war is not enough to guarantee peace.” In a separate session, the President of Montenegro emphasized that good leadership begins with hard work and the ability to listen and understand the public.
Conversation with NATO Deputy Secretary General
Day 2: From Careers to Culture On the second day, Keiren joined a session on career opportunities at NATO, where she gained insight into what the organization looks for in applicants. In the afternoon, all participants took part in a cultural visit to Kotor and Tivat, offering a chance to connect and reflect in a beautiful setting.
1