Politics Briefing
5% for Security?
Security Takes More Than Defense
Politics Briefing: 5% for Security?
July 2, 2026
Deutscher Bundestag
Germany’s security debate is currently focused primarily on the military dimension. While defense spending is rising significantly, funding for development cooperation and diplomacy is being cut.
This approach falls short. Experience from fragile states shows that lasting stability cannot be achieved through military deterrence alone. Resilient societies, strong institutions, and investments in health, education, and climate action are also essential.
Dr. Christian Haggenmiller, Medical Advisor European Union Military Staff, European External Action Service
On July 7-8, 2026, NATO allies met to discuss the future of the Alliance’s collective defense and to take stock of the initial implementation of the new 5% target for defense and security-related spending.
We brought together representatives from politics, the military, business, and civil society at the German Bundestag to discuss how Germany can strengthen the 3D approach (Defense, Diplomacy, and Development) as three equally important pillars of an integrated foreign and security policy.
Contact Persons
Sarah van Bentum, s.vanbentum@globalperspectives.org
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Politics Briefing
Politics Briefing foster professional dialogue with policymakers. This format is aimed particularly at members of the Bundestag, but also at political actors in government, ministries or political foundations.
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