Written By: Clémentine Nicolas
Supervised By: Finn Seiffert, Élea Huguet
Edited By: Edoardo Dall’Amico
ABSTRACT
This paper examines the implications of rapidly increasing defence expenditures on the European defence community following recent geopolitical shifts. It finds that while higher military spending has garnered political support and strengthened Europe’s preparedness, it also generates challenges related to domestic political dislocation, regional differentiation among EU Member States, and international misalignment with broader normative commitments. The analysis further argues that these challenges risk undermining the sustainability and coherence of Europe’s defence reorientation if left unaddressed. Building on this assessment, the paper outlines pathways for mitigation centred on improved communication, strategic foresight, and greater transparency in defence planning and budgeting. It concludes that acknowledging and actively managing these challenges is essential to transform crisis-driven increases in defence spending into durable, legitimate, and collectively effective security gains for Europe.
