Security at what cost? Examining the latest trends in global military spending

Online
15 May 2025
Past
Security at what cost? Examining the latest trends in global military spending

Recently released data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reveals that global military expenditure marked its tenth consecutive year of growth in 2024, reaching an unprecedented total of $2.7 trillion. This represents a real-terms rise of 9.4% on the total for 2023, which is also the largest annual increase since the end of the Cold War.

What do these trends mean for the international security landscape? What are the key drivers behind this increase? And what are the possible consequences for sustainable peace, security and development?

This event brought together leading experts in disarmament, peace and international security to examine current trends in global military expenditure. The discussion also explored what measures the international community can take to advance the global peace and security agenda.

This moderated online panel discussion began with a brief introduction to the topic by the moderator, followed by presentations from the panellists. The session concluded with a question and answer session.

It offered an opportunity to explore the latest data on global military spending, as well as significant trends and patterns. It also sought to initiate a broader discussion on the impacts of military spending on peace, security and development.

Video recording

Panellists

Moderator

  • Alexandra Kuimova, Researcher, Conventional Arms and Ammunition Programme, UNIDIR

Speakers

  • Xiao Liang, Researcher, Military Expenditure and Arms Production Programme, SIPRI
  • Claudia Garcia Guiza, Political Affairs Officer, Conventional Arms Branch, United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs

When and where

15 May 2025, 14:00-15:00 CEST, online.

Further information

For queries, please contact alexandra.kuimova@un.org.