Since its foundation WILPF has called for decreased military spending with an eventual abolishment. Over a hundred years later, the world’s military spending shows new record highs. In 2023 it increased for the ninth consecutive year, reaching a total of $2443 billion and we see new trends. For example, as a result of the war in Ukraine 39 of 43 countries in Europe increased their military expenditure in 2023 and states that traditionally have been prioritising social welfare are now joining the arms race allocating funds from social welfare to military activities. This episode consists of two parts. In this part one we look closer at what military spending is? How is it financed and where do governments get the money for it? Why is it increasing? How does this spending impact the economy and what are some of the gendered impacts of it? 

With the help of our guests for this episode that have long experience working with military expenditure as researchers, policy makers and advocates, we will unpack the meaning of military expenditure, debunk myths and explore the drivers behind military spending.