EUROMIL welcomes the conclusions of the 6 March European Council special meeting, which reaffirm the EU’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. European leaders underscored their solidarity with Ukraine and stressed that Ukraine should be included in any peace talks for their country. The leaders are also committed to a substantial increase in European defence spending, recognizing the urgent need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security and defence.

The Council also welcomed the Commission’s “ReArm Europe” plan which will allow the Member States greater fiscal flexibility and relaxation of the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) rules on defence spending as an immediate measure. Besides, the Council conclusions highlight key defence priorities, including military mobility, critical infrastructure protection, critical enablers, missiles, ammunition and drones. Another important step forward is that the Council urges co-legislators to swiftly finalize negotiations on the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) to further strengthen Europe’s defence readiness.

EUROMIL supports these efforts but defence capabilities extend beyond equipment and infrastructure. Military personnel remain the backbone of Europe’s defence, yet recruitment and retention challenges persist across European armed forces. Well-trained and adequately supported military personnel are essential to sustaining defence readiness. In this context, EUROMIL regrets that the European Commission’s recently published the Union of Skills Strategy, but it failed to establish links with the defence sector. The updated Roadmap on Women’s Rights, agreed upon this week, will align with the Union of Skills strategy to help close existing gaps. However, it is crucial to ensure that the military profession becomes a more attractive and inclusive career path for women. With armed forces facing growing personnel shortages, we cannot afford to overlook or underutilize talent. Real change requires collective action, and it must happen swiftly.

A comprehensive and integrated approach is necessary. Industrial capacities and technological developments also require highly trained and skilled military personnel.  EUROMIL remains committed to advocating for policies that strengthen the well-being and professional development of European military personnel, ensuring a resilient and prepared European defence, fit for the future.