Survey: majority of Estonians support defence budget of at least 5% of GDP

A public opinion survey by the Defence Ministry shows that the vast majority of Estonia's residents support increasing defence spending or maintaining it at current levels. The survey was conducted following the government's decision to raise defence spending to at least 5% of GDP.

Estonian citizens' support for national defence spending remains strong, according to the latest annual public opinion survey from the Defence Ministry. A large majority of respondents support either further growth in defence spending or at least maintaining it at current levels following the government's decision to allocate at least 5% of gross domestic product to defence.

The survey was conducted regularly, as is the Defence Ministry's tradition in measuring public support for national defence issues. The results reflect Estonia's broader societal approach to security matters at a time when the country has decided to significantly increase its defence capabilities.

Estonia's decision to raise defence spending to 5% of GDP is among the highest targets among NATO member states. Most allies still do not exceed the 2% threshold, making Estonia's plan significant both locally and internationally.

The growth in national defence spending reflects Estonia's heightened perception of its security situation in connection with Russian aggression in Ukraine. Since 2022, Estonia has consistently invested in its own defence capabilities and supported Ukraine through military and financial aid.