Germany's Military Spending Surge Raises Economic and Social Questions

The planned easing of debt rules to fund defense investments sparks debates on economic growth, social impacts, and long-term sustainability.

Germany plans to reform its debt rules, enabling unlimited borrowing for defense spending, with similar measures being adopted across the EU and other major powers like the US and China.
Proponents argue that increased military spending could boost economic growth and create jobs, particularly by absorbing workers from declining industries like automotive and machinery.
Critics question the efficiency of military investments, noting that civilian sectors such as renewable energy and education yield higher economic returns.
The shift toward defense spending is expected to strain social budgets, with potential cuts to welfare programs and proposals to increase retirement ages and reduce public holidays.
Analysts warn of long-term risks, including rising national debt, reliance on financial markets, and uncertain economic benefits from defense-driven growth.