On 9-10 May EUROMIL held its 131st General Assembly in Brussels (Belgium) at the Maison des Associations Internationales. EUROMIL’s President, Emmanuel Jacob opened the conference by welcoming the members and underscoring the significance of current European defence developments. He stressed the need to invest not only in equipment and capabilities but also in people, advocating for a defence system that is sustainable, just, and rooted in human values.

Joachim Pohlmann, Chief of Cabinet of Mr. Theo Francken, Belgian Minister of Defence

The General Assembly welcomed Mr. Joachim Pohlmann, Chief of Cabinet of Mr. Theo Francken, Belgian Minister of Defence, and MEP Wouter Beke (EPP, Belgium). Mr. Joachim Pohlmann highlighted Belgium’s increased defence spending, which is set to reach 2% of GDP, and emphasized the essential role of well-trained and well-equipped military personnel. He noted that Belgium is modestly but steadily strengthening its reserve forces as part of its broader strategic posture.

MEP Wouter Beke with EUROMIL’s President, Emmanuel Jacob

MEP Wouter Beke elaborated on crucial elements needed for achieve strategic autonomy: financial resources, operational readiness, capabilities, strategic resources, and European cooperation. He reiterated that without military personnel, there can be no effective defence, and therefore, valuing those who serve is critical to ensuring long-term security.

Peter Petrov, AFBA

A panel discussion on recruitment and retention took place during the General Assembly. Peter Petrov from the Association “Friends of the Bulgarian Army” (AFBA) focused on youth engagement and the importance of reserve forces. Their presentation called for greater inclusion, advocating for increased openness to LGBTIQ individuals and the promotion of gender diversity within the Bulgarian military as a solution to ongoing personnel shortages.

Major General Geeraert of the Belgian Armed Forces’ HR Division addressed gender-related recruitment and retention challenges. He discussed persistent perceptions and biases, as well as the need to support work-life balance. While noting that there is no gender pay gap in the Belgian military, he also presented several proactive HR initiatives, including outreach to diverse communities and gender-sensitive training for recruiters and leadership. He concluded that inclusivity is not just a value, but a “force multiplier.”

Major General Geeraert of the Belgian Armed Forces’ HR Division

During the session, the General Assembly unanimously adopted a statement in honour of Europe Day. The statement reaffirmed EUROMIL’s commitment to European unity and values, while calling for a more integrated, fair, and people-centred European defence policy.

The rest of the day was followed by EUROMIL’s Extraordinary General Assembly.

The 10th of May, the General Assembly meeting continued throughout the order of business, most notably with the presentation of EUROMIL’s recent survey on the Future of European Defence II. EUROMIL’s Policy Officer, Dimitra Koutouzi presented the findings highlighting the importance of continued dialogue and engagement with key stakeholders, including military associations and trade unions, to shape a defence policy that is not only ambitious but also inclusive, sustainable, and fit for the future.

The meeting continued with the presentation of the national reports from the member associations. Overall, the members exchanged views on issues of common concern, such as recruitment and retention, working conditions, veterans’ affairs, and the overall wellbeing of military personnel.

The day’s events closed at 12:30 and members will meet again in Paris (Frace) in October 2025 for the 132nd General Assembly meeting.