The 19th CIMIC Units Commanders’ Conference concluded in Naples after three days dedicated to civil-military cooperation, artificial intelligence, civil environment analysis, deterrence and defence readiness.
Organised by the Multinational CIMIC Group on behalf of the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, the 2026 edition brought together over 100 participants and representatives from 25 nations, confirming CUCC as a key forum for the NATO CIMIC community.
Hosted for the first time in Naples, the conference offered a distinctive Mediterranean setting for a wide-ranging exchange on the role of CIMIC in contemporary security scenarios. The event involved military representatives, international organisations, academia and civilian stakeholders, connecting strategic, operational and tactical perspectives on the evolution of civil-military cooperation.
Throughout the conference, the ability to understand the civil environment emerged as a central element for planning, decision-making and operational effectiveness. Analysing territories, populations, institutions, vulnerabilities, critical infrastructures and cultural dynamics was highlighted as essential to support commanders in complex and contested scenarios.
“CIMIC is not only about engaging with the civil environment; it is about understanding it before it shapes the operation,” said Colonel Piero Furlan, Commander of the Multinational CIMIC Group. “The 19th CUCC confirmed that interoperability, innovation and shared professional knowledge are essential to support NATO’s ability to plan, decide and act effectively.”
The first day addressed the human environment, hybrid threats, international humanitarian law, civilian vulnerability, resilience and the cognitive effects of modern warfare. The second day focused on artificial intelligence, innovation and civil environment analysis, exploring how digital tools can support situational awareness and CIMIC assessment while keeping human judgement at the centre of the decision-making process.
The final day took place at Allied Joint Force Command Naples, which hosted the closing session of the conference, strengthening the link between CIMIC expertise and the operational level of the Alliance. The final discussions focused on the operational dimension of CIMIC within NATO, with specific attention to readiness, interoperability and the continued development of the CIMIC function.
The conference concluded by strengthening common understanding, sharing lessons learned and supporting the harmonisation of CIMIC capabilities across the Alliance.
Through the CIMIC Units Commanders’ Conference, the Multinational CIMIC Group continues to provide a qualified platform for dialogue, interoperability and professional growth, contributing to the development of CIMIC as a key enabler for NATO planning and operations.
MNCG is leading the way on civil-military cooperation.
