(DIS)TRUSTING NATO? PERCEPTIONS OF YOUTH IN ROMANIA AND TÜRKIYE AMID THE WAR IN UKRAINE

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has profoundly affected global security and international relations, particularly influencing perceptions of trust in institutions such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This study investigates the level of (dis)trust in NATO among citizens, especially youth, in Romania and Türkiye—two strategic NATO member states—within the context of the evolving geopolitical landscape. Romania, with its border shared with Ukraine, and Türkiye, with its historically complex relationship with the Alliance, provide unique case studies for understanding public sentiment towards NATO amidst Russia's aggression. The research methodology integrates a dual approach, thus the qualitative component will involve a theoretical framework and a comparative analysis, examining data from the Eurobarometer reports and other surveys to assess changes before and after the invasion of Ukraine, while the quantitative component consists of a questionnaire administered to students from Romania and Türkiye across various fields of study, including international relations, diplomacy, political science, history, economics, languages, and engineering. The findings highlight the intricate and multifaceted nature of trust in international organizations, particularly during times of conflict. They underscore how trust can be influenced by shifting geopolitical dynamics and varying national contexts.