In a world marked by geopolitical instability, the European Union faces a decisive turning point: how to build a strong and cohesive European defense policy. Lorenzo Badiani, a student at ITI Da Vinci-Fascetti in Pisa, outlines a clear and insightful perspective on the future of European defense, analyzing its current weaknesses, its strategic potential, and the necessary steps toward a more secure and politically integrated EU.
The Current State of European Defense
Despite mechanisms like the European Defence Agency (EDA), the European Defence Fund (EDF), and PESCO(Permanent Structured Cooperation), the EU’s defense strategy remains fragmented. Compared to the United States’ industrial giants—like Lockheed Martin—European defense companies still lack scale and competitiveness. Only 15% of the EU’s military spending goes toward joint procurement, far below the 2030 target of 35%.
Why a Unified European Defense Matters
Badiani highlights three main advantages of an integrated EU defense:
- Efficiency and Cost-Effectiveness: Centralized procurement and shared production would reduce costs, eliminate duplication, and increase industrial competitiveness.
- Strategic Autonomy: While NATO remains vital, Europe must reduce overreliance on the US. A common defense would provide the EU with the autonomy to act in crises.
- Political Integration: Common security and defense structures can serve as a catalyst for deeper political unity among member states.
Obstacles to a Common Defense Policy
However, the road to integration is complex. National sovereignty remains a major barrier—defense is traditionally a domain of national governments. Strategic divergences between countries like France (with nuclear capabilities) and Baltic states (focused on Russian deterrence) further complicate efforts. Budgetary concerns also persist, and without consensus, proposals such as Defense Bonds risk stalling.
Proposed Solutions for a Stronger EU Defense
Badiani proposes pragmatic and forward-thinking strategies:
- A European Commissioner for Defenseto coordinate existing initiatives (like EDF and PESCO) and set coherent policy directions.
- A common industrial military policy, transforming leading defense firms into pan-European actors rather than multinationals.
- A defense version of the NextGenerationEUplan to finance defense projects through joint bonds, easing national budget pressures.
- Strategic dualism: Centralize certain defense functions while respecting member state autonomy for others.
Engaging EU Citizens in the Defense Debate
A critical but often overlooked component is public support. Badiani underscores the importance of citizen involvementthrough transparency, democratic participation, and potentially a European referendum. Without popular legitimacy, no defense integration plan can succeed.
Conclusion: Toward a Safer, Stronger Europe
European defense is not just a policy issue—it is a question of the EU’s future geopolitical role and internal cohesion. If approached with vision and unity, it could enhance Europe’s security while laying the groundwork for deeper political integration. As Lorenzo Badiani aptly notes, this moment represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The time to act is now.
Badiani-Lorenzo_EUdemos-contenst-2025-ITI-Pisa su Why the EU Must Strengthen Its Strategic Autonomy
