Vilnius, Lithuania – 1 June 2026
On 30 May 2026, parliamentarians from across Europe formally established the Patriots Group within the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA) during a meeting held on the margins of the NATO PA Spring Session in Vilnius.
The creation of the Patriots Group reflects a growing desire among parliamentarians to strengthen cooperation between patriotic, conservative and sovereignist forces within the transatlantic community. The Group aims to contribute actively to discussions on defence, security and strategic challenges facing the Alliance while maintaining a strong commitment to national sovereignty, democratic legitimacy and the interests of NATO member states.
Participants emphasized that a strong Alliance requires strong nations. NATO’s effectiveness is rooted in the democratic legitimacy of its member states and in the willingness of sovereign nations to cooperate in defence of their shared security interests. The Patriots Group intends to provide a platform for parliamentarians who believe that national democracy, accountability and security remain the cornerstone of transatlantic cooperation.
As part of the decisions taken during the meeting, Belgian Senator Johan Deckmyn (Vlaams Belang) was unanimously designated as President of the Patriots Group within the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. He will act as the principal point of contact for the Group in its relations with the NATO PA Secretariat and other political groupings active within the Assembly.
Commenting on the establishment of the Group, Johan Deckmyn stated:
“The establishment of the Patriots Group is an important milestone for those who believe that patriotism, democracy and national sovereignty remain essential pillars of a secure and stable transatlantic community. We are convinced that patriotic voices deserve a stronger presence within international parliamentary forums. Our objective is constructive cooperation, open debate and the defence of the interests of our citizens within the framework of the Atlantic Alliance. »
The Patriots Group intends to continue expanding its network within the Assembly and welcomes dialogue with parliamentarians who share its commitment to security, democratic accountability, national sovereignty and a strong transatlantic partnership.
For further information:
Johan Deckmyn
President of the Patriots Group within the NATO Parliamentary Assembly
