Key facts
- Alexander De Croo believes EU defence and aid spending are interconnected and vital for security.
- He stated that military spending's effectiveness is enhanced by conflict prevention investments.
- De Croo emphasized development's role in security and economic agendas, using Ukraine's reconstruction as an example.
- He described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as dramatic and called for greater access for aid organizations.
Alexander De Croo, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and former Prime Minister of Belgium, has advocated for a balanced approach to the European Union's long-term budget, emphasizing that defence and aid spending are intrinsically linked and crucial for regional security. He stated that increased military expenditure should be complemented by investments in conflict prevention to maximize effectiveness.
Speaking on Euronews' 'Europe Today', De Croo explained that a stable neighbourhood fosters economic growth, democracy, and peace. He noted that the European Commission has proposed a €2 trillion budget for 2028-2034, with a significant portion allocated to defence. While there isn't a specific aid funding stream, instruments like the Global Europe Instrument include funds for outreach. De Croo believes development is a key component of both security and economic strategies, citing the eventual reconstruction of Ukraine as a prime example that can prevent protracted conflict and create economic opportunities.
De Croo recently attended the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Poland, where the UNDP is actively involved in supporting veterans, de-mining efforts, and providing essential services like electricity to millions of civilians affected by Russia's ongoing invasion. He described the war's impact as 'development in reverse,' underscoring the need for a swift end to hostilities to enable human progress.
His recent visit to Gaza also highlighted dire humanitarian conditions. De Croo described the situation as dramatic, with a vast majority of residents displaced and living in inadequate shelters. He is seeking greater humanitarian access for organizations like the UNDP from the Israeli Defence Forces, acknowledging their concerns about potential misuse of aid by Hamas but stressing the importance of enabling people to restart their lives.