in a broader perspective and in the longterm, of the ability to deal with situations of traditional conflict. The latter case, is perceived as less likely today, but cannot be neglected because it can affect vital national interests, including the very survival of the State, more than any other circumstance. 13. Finally, we need to understand in what way and to what extent the different international organizations of which Italy is a member, contribute to international security and the defence of the nation. Membership of the Atlantic Alliance is vital for the organisation’s strategic function and is also useful in reducing the overall impact of the defence function on the national budget. From this viewpoint it is necessary to assess the way in which this participation deals with the fair division of responsibilities, in proportion to the overall potentiality of the country. Participation in the process of European integration in the field of defence, on the other hand, means that it is necessary to think about the question of what legal and political instruments must be developed in order to produce more security. The need to contribute to the peace initiatives of the United Nations, makes it necessary to provide all those activities which can render the role of the nation credible within the organisation. Internal reform in the Ministry of Defence 14. The ministry of Defence is facing an historic moment characterized by complex and pressing needs, which require fast, effective action in order to preserve, and in the longer term to strengthen, the fundamental function that it expresses. At the same time, the government is aiming at a broad reform of the public administration, in order to provide the State with modern tools for the development of the activities. In order to respect the specific features associated with the functions to be performed, it is therefore in the interest of the country that the Defence is included in this period of reform. - 17 -