IV. Relevant actors
4.1. Introduction
CIMIC is essential for the preparation and conduct of military operations; thus, being deployed on the territory of sovereign NATO member nations with functioning civilian infrastructure and government services requires militaries to liaise with other military actors and civilians. CIMIC will be evaluated based on it's ability to facilitate consultations and integration with the HN authorities (CMI) and it's capability to collect data on the civil environment (CFI).
NATO has adapted in response to shifts in the security environment. As a result, CIMIC operations have also evolved. The alliance will focus primarily on operations within allied nations instead of in failed states. While core tasks remain unchanged, there is a significant shift in how operations are carried out in a fully functioning country.
In the context of allied nations, the role of the CIMIC personnel is to collaborate with
the host nation's domestic CIMIC, comprehend the nation's laws and legalities, and establish conditions that enable manoeuvre elements well before any conflict. CIMIC personnel need to shift their focus to military-to-military liaison, a key aspect of their role.
CIMIC personnel possess unique and competent skills that are crucial in effectively managing potential conflicts between non-military actors of the host nation and military representatives of the allied force. This unique capability within the force allows CIMIC personnel to handle CMI situations even under difficult circumstances, making you an invaluable asset to the operations. Subsequently, your ability to pave the ground with relevant and robust liaison to key interlocutors for other military functions and their personnel to effectively collaborate and consult with their respective
non-military counterparts further underscores your importance in the operations.
Understanding the laws and legal restrictions within the AO is crucial for credibility and defining responsibilities. Conducting meetings or assessments without host nation's approval can lead to issues and reduce confidence and credibility within the communities and country.
In warfighting the majority of the engagements are done MIL to MIL, HN CIMIC to CIMIC. In stability operations, during peacetime, military engagement, and peace support activities with the civilian populace, it is essential to involve the host nation's counterparts as they have a vested interest in our actions and conduct within their country.