Defence and Security: standing still is not an option

How can we ensure Europe’s peace and security in an increasingly unpredictable world? One thing is crystal clear: standing still is not an option. With conflicts flaring up on our doorstep and threats growing by the day, protecting our citizens and defending our democratic values has never been more urgent.

In this context, the EESC opinion REX/603 on the Joint White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030 supports the Commission’s proposals and offers a clear, forward-looking response.

Building on its longstanding work in defence and industrial policy, including its recent exploratory opinion on EU defence funding (ECO/655), the EESC sets out what it believes must happen next if Europe is to meet the growing challenges ahead.

In this new opinion, the EESC argues that defence is not just about military might. It's not about tanks or missiles.  It’s a public good that ties together innovation, civil resilience, and the very core of democracy and human rights.

Europe’s future security depends on bold ideas, long-term strategies, and collective action. The Joint White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030 answers this call with a powerful, forward-looking plan.

This White Paper is a game-changer. It proposes a massive surge in defence investment, unlocking up to €800 billion over the next four years. That’s not just spending—it’s an investment in Europe’s future. The SAFE Instrument will provide up to €150 billion in loans to Member States, enabling joint projects and strategic capability development. The focus is sharp: air and missile defence, artillery, ammunition, drones and counter-drone systems, military mobility, advanced technologies like AI and quantum communication, and critical infrastructure including space assets.

Open strategic autonomy means Europe must build and control its own defence tech. That means investing in SMEs, forging tight bonds between research and industry, and cutting through red tape.

The EESC makes a clear call: Europe must act now to equip Member States with the financial tools they need to strengthen their defence.

With Russia’s aggression showing no signs of losing steam, time is of the essence. Supporting Ukraine isn’t just charity—it’s smart strategy. Integrating Ukraine’s defence industry strengthens Europe’s security and global credibility. The Eastern Border Shield, led by frontline states, shows how collective defence works—and it demands immediate investment in vulnerabilities like ammunitions, missile systems but also, advanced ground and air defence, cybersecurity, military mobility, space assets and next-generation technologies such as AI and quantum communication.

The EESC highlights the importance of strengthening partnerships between academia, research institutions, and industry, while also stressing that certain strategically sensitive technologies may require dedicated, EU-led programmes to maintain control and secure Europe’s autonomy.

Europe’s countries must keep full control of their armies, but cooperation with NATO and partners must deepen. The EESC urges the European Investment Bank to step up and back defence projects boldly. Streamlining procurement and slashing bureaucracy through the Defence Readiness Omnibus means faster, smarter delivery of critical capabilities.

Europe has the tools, the resources and the shared values needed to safeguard its future. The EESC’s opinion views defence not merely as a reaction to external threats, but as a cornerstone of a broader vision: a secure, democratic and united Europe.

This White Paper isn’t just policy—it’s a wake-up call. The EESC urges the EU to act now, invest smart, and stand united. Defence is the foundation of a secure, democratic, and powerful Europe. The time for hesitation is over. The future demands readiness—and Europe must deliver.

By Marcin Nowacki, EESC Member and Rapporteur of Opinion REX/603 Joint white paper for European Defence Readiness 2030.