Willkommen bei Aliante 2009

Journey to the Centre of Europe

The world has entered the year of 2009 that, together with other things, brings the ninth Aliante, the unique international competition. As many previous contestants will say, you can look forward to something really extraordinary.

That is because there is no similar thing in the world like Aliante competition, – with its concept and international extension. It is focused on improvement of knowledge about the North Atlantic Treaty, NATO, security issues and international relations. Moreover, its winners can expect a superb trip that you just can't get at a travel agency. Moreover all participants extend their knowledge in the competition areas, which is also a real prize. Contestants also meet people with similar interests from other countries and gain contacts that can be useful in further studies or even during a professional career.

Aliante 2007 winners travelled through huge parts of the USA and last year the Winners’ Trip lead them to scenic Norway, and this year they will visit the country, where Aliante originates - they will tour the military bases and monuments in the Czech Republic.

The Czech Republic is not just Prague. The Czech Republic is also elite military units, from the CBRN to the Gripen aircraft. This country, surrounded by mountains, offers many natural beauties together with cultural and historical heritage. And if someone still thinks it’s no big deal, let him add the attendance to NATO Days in Ostrava - the unique security show and the biggest event of its kind in Central Europe.

Of course, to get there will not be easy. Students have to succeed in challenging national and international competition, prove their knowledge, and ability to cooperate under difficult conditions. As in previous years, there will be two knowledge-based rounds. The best from them proceed to the international final where their physical and mental strength will be tested. This year, the final will be held in Lithuania, near the city of Kaunas at the Division General Stasys Raštikis NCO School and Lithuanian Great Hetman Jonušas Radvila Training Regiment.

The competition will be a little bit harder than last year. Aliante 2009 is organized in the Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In addition, Aliante 2009 will once again host a separate competition in the Ukraine.

The main organizer and international coordinator of the Aliante 2009 competition is:

National partners include:

Aliante 2009 is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, the Ministry of Defense of Lithuania, the Ministry of Defense of the Czech Republic, and the NATO Public Diplomacy Division.