DAYTON, Ohio — For the first time since 2003, the United States is hosting the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, with Dayton, Ohio, serving as the venue from May 22 to 26, 2025. This gathering coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords, the 1995 agreement that ended the Bosnian War.

Approximately 300 parliamentarians from NATO's 32 member nations are convening in downtown Dayton, which has been transformed into a secured "NATO Village." The assembly sessions are being held at prominent venues, including the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, Victoria Theatre, and CareSource facilities. To ensure security, pedestrian and vehicle access within the NATO Village is restricted from May 21 to 27. The city has allocated over $700,000 for fencing and barricades to secure the area.

The Dayton Peace Accords, negotiated at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and signed in Paris in December 1995, effectively ended the Bosnian War—a conflict that resulted in significant loss of life and displacement in the Balkans. Dayton's role in facilitating this agreement has since been a point of pride for the city, reinforcing its identity as a "city of peace."

In addition to formal meetings, the assembly features cultural and educational programs. A highlight is the "Concert for Peace" on May 29, featuring the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra and the Dayton Philharmonic, conducted by Marin Alsop. This concert symbolizes the enduring peace between Dayton and Sarajevo. Additionally, the University of Dayton is hosting "The Dayton Dialogue: Conversations about Peace & Security in the Balkans," a public forum from May 22 to 25, featuring daily panels discussing NATO's role in transatlantic relations and current issues in the Balkans.

Hosting the assembly has presented challenges for local businesses. Some downtown Dayton businesses have expressed concerns about the economic impact of the event, particularly due to restricted access during the Memorial Day weekend, a traditionally busy period. Business owners have voiced frustrations over potential revenue losses and the lack of compensation for disruptions.

Conversely, the assembly presents opportunities for foreign direct investment. With parliamentarians and business leaders from 32 NATO member nations in attendance, Dayton has the chance to showcase its industries and infrastructure, potentially attracting international business expansion.

The assembly occurs amid discussions about the U.S. commitment to NATO, especially under the Trump administration, which has questioned the extent of U.S. involvement in the alliance. Hosting the assembly in Dayton underscores the city's historical role in international diplomacy and highlights the importance of transatlantic cooperation.

As the assembly progresses, Dayton continues to honor its legacy as a facilitator of peace while navigating the complexities of hosting a multinational event. The city's efforts reflect a commitment to fostering international dialogue and cooperation, reinforcing its place on the global stage.