UK military spending hike a blow for global peace and justice, Quakers say
26 February 2025
Quakers are deeply concerned by the government's announcement that they will increase military spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2027 by slashing the aid budget by 40 per cent.
The decision to cut aid to 0.3 per cent of GNI will not make the UK safer. On the contrary, it will feed future global insecurity, meaning the poorest people pay the highest price.
Paul Parker, recording clerk for Quakers in Britain, said: “As Quakers we believe there is that of God in everyone, including those who will die of preventable diseases, or fail to get the food, shelter or clean water they need, thanks to this decision.
“This decision literally takes money away from things that save lives and channels it to weapons that destroy them.
“From climate breakdown to pandemics, the last few years should have taught us that many of the most pressing problems we face can only be tackled through international cooperation, not by arming ourselves to the teeth.
“We recognise the challenges our leaders face. But we urge them to think more creatively about how we can work together to build a secure world through peaceful means."
Increasing military spending over the past decade has not made the world a safer place. This latest boost to UK military spending will mean less money to tackle the causes of global instability such including poverty, health inequality and climate breakdown.
The announcement comes at a dire time as the US has frozen aid payments. As one of the world's wealthiest countries, and as a former imperial power, the UK has a moral responsibility to help address global injustices.