On May 5, 2025, the European Parliament’s REGI Committee approved an emergency measure to redirect regional development funds toward military and defense industries. Originally intended to reduce economic inequality and support infrastructure, these funds can now be used for weapons and military logistics—marking a drastic shift in EU priorities.
The decision, driven by a center-right majority and fast-tracked with minimal debate, allows member states to finance defense through EU structural funds. Critics argue this violates the original spirit of cohesion policy and undermines democratic oversight, as the emergency procedure bypassed full parliamentary scrutiny.
The vote exposed a new coalition backing the militarization of the EU budget: conservatives (EPP, ECR), centrists (Renew), and even nationalist forces (ID), despite public opposition from some national parties. The EU Court of Auditors and several lawmakers warned that this move distorts policy goals, increases opacity, and could divert funds from critical needs like healthcare, green energy, and regional development.
More troubling is the rhetoric used to silence dissent. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen labeled all opposition as “pro-Putin,” equating peace advocacy with disloyalty. This binary narrative—either support militarization or be branded a traitor—reflects a deeper democratic crisis.
The final vote in the full Parliament is expected by May 8. If approved, this decision will set a dangerous precedent: replacing social investment with defense spending in the name of “permanent emergency.” It’s a pivot that risks eroding the EU’s founding values—peace, democracy, and solidarity—in favor of a security state logic.
extended article in Italian: https://www.vietatoparlare.it/bruxelles-sceglie-le-armi-non-i-cittadini-i-fondi-per-la-societa-civile-andranno-alla-guerra/