Military spending is on the rise, and it’s affecting us in ways we can’t overlook. In 2025, global military costs reached a staggering $2.9 trillion, with Europe alone spending over €380 billion on defense. This is a glaring contrast to the ongoing neglect of essential areas like food security and public health. In fact, the United Nations estimates that ending world hunger would require about $90 billion annually—less than 1% of military spending. The issue isn’t a lack of resources but a lack of political will.
Food insecurity is a pressing problem, even in Europe, where many countries produce large amounts of food. Many people can’t afford healthy diets, often relying on cheap, ultra-processed foods that harm both personal health and the environment. Small-scale farmers struggle with low prices, while ecosystems feel the burden of unsustainable farming practices.
It’s important to understand that food insecurity isn’t just about individual choices—it’s about systemic issues. Recognizing the “Right to Food” means addressing the power imbalances in our food systems, where profit often comes before people. War and conflict disrupt food production, inflate prices, and redirect necessary resources away from care and community resilience.
Diet-related diseases are also on the rise in Europe. A joint report from the European Commission and OECD found that chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes cost EU economies over €115 billion each year. These costs are most severe in areas where access to fresh food is limited. Meanwhile, around 60% of European soils are declared unhealthy due to intensive farming, generating over €50 billion in economic losses annually. These trends are interconnected; industrial food systems harm public health and fuel environmental degradation.
The solution lies in adopting a One Health approach that integrates public health and environmental protection. Investing in sustainable food systems can benefit both people and the planet. By doing so, we can cut future costs related to healthcare and environmental restoration and enhance overall community well-being.
To truly embrace the “Right to Food,” citizens must have a voice in shaping food policies. This aligns with the goals of the European Citizens’ Initiative, which calls for fair public procurement, prioritizing local and organic foods, and a shift away from large-scale industrial models. Supporting small farmers and ensuring transparency in food production are crucial steps toward a more equitable food system.
We have the power to choose a different path for Europe—one that treats food as a common good and invests in peace through nourishment. Achieving the Right to Food is not just a dream; it’s a necessity. Change is possible if we all work together to demand it.
