In recent years, the increase in defense spending has become a priority for many European countries, especially after the Russian invasion of Ukraine and growing geopolitical instability. However, this increase in military budgets cannot be carried out without a strict and common regulation that guarantees transparency and avoids corruption cases. Corruption in military levels not only diverts crucial resources, but also undermines public trust and endangers the effectiveness of the armed forces. A clear example of this is the case of Spain, where the military estate has historically worked as a "parallel government", opaque and away from the effective control of the civil government.
Corruption in the Spanish army: a historical problem

The Spanish army has been, for decades, an example of how the lack of transparency and control can lead to generalized corrupt practices. Those of us who did compulsory military service, colloquially known as "La Mili", are direct witnesses of how corruption permeated all levels of the institution. From the purchase of material to the management of resources, irregularities were current currency.

An emblematic case is that of overpricing in the acquisition of basic material. In the 80s, a simple pen could cost 10,000 pesetas (about 60 euros current), an exorbitant price that reflected the lack of control and impunity with which public funds were managed. Those of us who had trades in civil life and performed them in the army, as was my case, we witnessed how invoices were inflated, resources were diverted and suppliers close to military controls were favored. This culture of corruption was not only tolerated, but in many cases it was institutionalized.
The danger of opacity in military estates

The case of Spain is not unique. In many European countries, military levels operate with a high degree of autonomy and opacity, which makes them culture broth for corrupt practices. This lack of transparency is especially worrying in a context in which European countries are increasing their defense budgets. Without effective control mechanisms, there is a risk that these additional funds will deviate towards particular interests instead of strengthening the defensive capacities of countries.

Corruption in military levels is not only an ethical and economic problem, but also strategic. A corrupt army is a weak army, unable to fulfill its mission of protecting citizens. In addition, the lack of transparency hinders cooperation between the different European armies, an essential step to create an effective common defense.
Towards common and restrictive legislation

To prevent the increase in defense spending becoming a source of corruption, it is necessary to establish common and very restrictive legislation that regulates how military budgets apply. This legislation must include rigorous control mechanisms, independent audits and severe sanctions for those who commit irregularities.

First, it is essential that civil governments recover effective control over military estates. This implies the creation of independent supervision agencies that monitor spending and military acquisitions, guaranteeing that funds are used transparently and efficiently. In addition, it is necessary to promote a culture of transparency and accountability within the Armed Forces, where any irregularity is denounced and sanctioned.

Second, the European Union must play an active role in the fight against corruption in the armies of its member states. This could include the creation of a European Defense Supervision Agency, responsible for auditing military budgets and ensuring that transparency and efficiency standards are met. This agency should have access to all relevant information and the authority to impose sanctions in case of irregularities.
The importance of transparency in the future union of European armies

The creation of a common European defense is an ambitious but necessary objective in the current geopolitical context. However, this project will only be viable if the problem of corruption in military estates is addressed. The lack of transparency and control in national armies not only weakens its effectiveness, but also hinders cooperation between countries.

In order for the future union of European armies to be a success, it is essential that all countries adopt common transparency and accountability standards. This will not only strengthen mutual confidence among member states, but also guarantee that resources are used efficiently and effectively.
Conclusion: Transparency and control for a strong defense

The increase in defense expenditure in Europe is an unavoidable need in an increasingly unstable world. However, this increase must be accompanied by common and restrictive legislation that guarantees transparency and avoids corruption. The case of Spain, with its history of corruption in the military estate, is a reminder of the dangers of opacity and lack of control.

Europe cannot afford to waste resources in corrupt practices. To build a strong and effective common defense, it is essential that civil governments recover control over military estates and that rigorous supervision mechanisms are established. Only in this way can we guarantee that defense funds are used transparently and efficiently, protecting not only our borders, but also our democratic values.