Meloni aims for NATO’s 2% defense spending target without increasing budget

For the first time, Italy is poised to meet NATO’s defense spending target of 2% of its GDP—a benchmark set by the alliance in 2014. However, the Meloni government plans to achieve this without a net increase in the defense budget, opting instead to broaden the definition of military expenditure.

A strategy of reclassification

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti have clarified that Italy intends to align with NATO parameters without compromising its welfare programs. The key lies in reclassifying existing expenditures related to cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, and other strategic areas as part of the defense budget.

Modern defense extends beyond the military

In today’s context, national security encompasses more than just the armed forces. Cyber defense, border control, countering disinformation, and energy resilience are all facets of security that are currently funded but not always accounted for under "defense" spending.

Concrete examples: coast guard and cybersecurity

Maritime operations by the Coast Guard, protection of state IT systems, and interventions to secure networks are all considered legitimate defense expenditures. This approach isn’t about manipulating figures but updating them to reflect contemporary security needs.

A political threshold, not a technical dogma

The 2% GDP target is a political commitment among allies, not a rigid formula. In 2023, Italy’s defense spending stood at 1.6% of GDP. With the new methodology, the country aims to bridge the gap without excessive cuts or new taxes.

Following the lead of other nations

Countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands have already adopted broader criteria for calculating military spending. Italy now plans to follow this approach.

Enhancing transparency in accounting

Including previously "invisible" expenditures also aids internal discussions: defending security doesn’t equate to militarization but ensures freedom, stability, and resilience in a world threatened by hybrid warfare and cyberattacks. This is the message the Italian government appears to be conveying