The GroenLinks-PvdA party in the Netherlands has proposed a plan to significantly increase defense spending, linking it to fifteen principles aimed at ensuring its effectiveness within a European context.

To avoid impacting social spending, the party suggests that a higher defense budget should be coupled with investments in sustainability, energy independence, and “a new welfare state.” The proposal involves allowing the national debt to rise, which is currently below the EU standard, and utilizing the European Commission’s “national escape clause” for extra defense investments.

GroenLinks-PvdA also advocates for a “solidarity contribution” from profitable companies and wealthy citizens to fund these investments, suggesting measures like increasing the bank tax, abolishing tax deductions for share buybacks, and introducing a “financial speculation tax.”

The plan emphasizes strategic investments in areas where the Netherlands is strong, such as maritime, logistical, drone, sensor, cyber, and space technology, accompanied by an investment plan that outlines expenditure supervision.

Party leader Frans Timmermans has also revealed an ambition for the government to take a stake in strategically relevant defense companies, aiming for a percentage of at least 25 percent, potentially reaching 51 percent for strategic control.

The proposal also includes a commitment to long-term structural support for Ukraine, the cessation of oil, gas and enriched uranium purchases from Russia, and modernization of the armed forces, primarily within a European context, with minimal purchases from the US and none from Israel.