Joint white paper for European Defence Readiness 2030

Background

The EESC recognises that threats to democracy are closely tied to Europe’s security. The emergence of authoritarian and totalitarian regimes, particularly in neighbouring regions, poses challenges to regional stability and democratic values. This evolving global landscape underscores how important it is for the EU to reinforce its security strategy while safeguarding its democratic principles.

The EESC emphasises that the EU’s security strategy must be complemented by a broader peace strategy across Europe, with the goal of achieving a just and sustainable peace. This strategy should also involve increased efforts to promote peace in global conflict zones.

This opinion comes in direct response to the White Paper for European Defence Readiness 2030, published by the Commission on 19 March 2025. The White Paper, together with the ReArm Europe Plan, marks a significant step forward in reshaping the EU’s defence landscape and is linked to the proposals of the Preparedness Union Strategy and ProtectEU, the new European internal security strategy.

The opinion underlines the fact that enhancing EU defence readiness requires a holistic approach, where innovation, infrastructure and resilience are as crucial as military and civil preparedness.

Key points

In the opinionthe EESC:

• believes the EU must work towards a common defence policy within the broader framework of its foreign and security policy and establish a strong European Defence Pillar. To this end, the necessary legislative and financial measures must be taken urgently;
• Calls for greater support for SMEs and closer collaboration with research institutions to meet defence needs and safeguard strategic autonomy;
• stresses the importance of expanding international defence cooperation, particularly with key global partners, to enhance Europe’s security stance.

Additional Information

EESC section: External Relations (REX)

Opinion number: REX/603-EESC-2025

Opinion type: Optional

Referral: JOIN(2025) 120 final

Rapporteur: Marcin NOWACKI (Employers - GR I/ Poland), co-rapporteur: Carlos Manuel TRINDADE (Workers - GR II/Portugal)

Date of adoption by the section: 12/06/2025

Date of adoption in plenary: 16-17 July 2025

Result of the vote in plenary: 137 in favour/3 against/0 abstentions

Contact

Millie Tsoumani

Press Officer, Tel.: +32 (0) 2 546 9088, Email: amalia.tsoumani@eesc.europa.eu

Marie-Laurence Drillon

Policy Officer, Tel.:+32 (2) 546 8320, Email: Marie-Laurence.Drillon@eesc.europa.eu