6. The NATO Information Office Activities in Russia in the context of Realpolitik

This Chapter observes and analyses the tensions within the NATO–Russian relationship by focussing on the activities of the NATO Information Office (NIO) in Russia, especially how its political agenda has influenced the working processes in the office. Being a NIO project officer for almost two years (2012–2013), just before the Ukrainian crises, I implemented a number of successful projects within our small team and together with our Russian partner organisations and colleagues. Due to the confidentiality obligation within my working contract with NIO towards third parties, which continues beyond the termination of the employment relationship, I will not be able to mention all the details of some of the processes that I faced during my duties. However, there is considerable public information and media sources available, which cover the most relevant topics and tendencies discussed in this Chapter.