How does the North Atlantic Council govern NATO?

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Flag of NATO featuring a white compass rose emblem with four lines radiating from the center on a blue background. — North Atlantic Treaty Organization Flag of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

The North Atlantic Council serves as the primary governing body of NATO. Its governance structure functions through the following mechanisms:

Composition: The council is composed of ministerial representatives from each member state.1
Meeting Frequency: Representatives meet at the ministerial level at least twice per year.1
Permanent Session: Outside of ministerial meetings, the council remains in permanent session at the ambassadorial level, ensuring continuous oversight and decision-making.1
Leadership: The council is chaired by the NATO secretary-general, a position traditionally held by a European representative.1

Through this structure, the council exercises authority over the alliance's strategic direction, including the appointment of key military leadership such as the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR).1