Approved for public release; distribution in unlimited. / The collapse of the Soviet Union, and the associated end of global confrontation, has resulted in a dynamic process of changes, which has transformed the entire security situation in the Baltic Sea region. In recognition that NATO is becoming an organization able to extend stability and security throughout all of Europe, Latvia has considered membership into NATO a key to the solution of the Baltic security dilemma. This thesis examines the influence of NATO institutions on the Latvian security environment, in advance of Latvia's full-fledged membership into NATO. The analysis is particularly concerned with the gradual growth of various NATO cooperative institutions by which NATO will extend its influence in the strengthening of security and stability in the Baltic Sea region. The analysis concludes that NATO's involvement with Latvia has had multiple positive effects, including increased security, transformation of armed forces, and creation of a new framework in Latvian-Russian relations. / Captain, Latvian Armed Forces