[…] The 5 per cent target is rationalized in part as funding for the new set of capability targets announced on 5 June 2025 as part of the NATO Defence Planning Process (NDPP). […]
However, the specific capability targets set under the NDPP are classified. As a result, the defence budgets meant to address these targets are developed and approved without the possibility of public scrutiny or democratic oversight. In a standard budgetary process, actors such as parliaments, auditing institutions, ministries, civil society organizations and the broader public play important roles in ensuring oversight and accountability. When key planning documents remain inaccessible, it becomes impossible for them to assess whether spending decisions align with actual defence needs. This lack of transparency and accountability poses a serious challenge to responsible resource management and undermines the principles of good governance. […]
Ultimately, the continued growth in military expenditure reflects a move away from a culture that promotes peace through cooperation, dialogue, respect for international law, fulfilment of international commitments for the benefit of the common good, and peaceful resolution of disputes.
In considering the ramifications of the new target, it is important to ask not only how much is spent, but how it is spent; for example, whether taxpayers’ money is being invested with sufficient oversight and accountability in the defence planning and budgetary processes. Läs artikel