Spain's Armed Forces to Receive €200 Monthly Salary Increase, Yet Military Unions Call for More
The Spanish Ministry of Defense is set to approve a €200 monthly salary increase for all members of the Armed Forces in the coming days. Additionally, personnel in the troops and sailors will continue to receive a €100 bonus that has been implemented throughout 2024, leading to a total increase of €300 for these groups. This decision follows the ministry's aim to enhance compensation for its members, with the decree expected to boost military spending by an estimated €400 million.
Sources from the Defense Ministry revealed that this increase will be integrated into the general component of the specific supplement for all Armed Forces personnel, which is seen as a step towards meeting Spain's international commitments in security and defense. The ministry emphasizes the need for adequate and fair remuneration for the Armed Forces’ commitment to peace and their role in emergency interventions.
To further discuss these adjustments, the Defense Ministry plans to convene the Council of Personnel of the Armed Forces (Coperfas) to fulfill necessary procedural requirements.
Despite this announcement, several military associations, including the Non-Commissioned Officers of the Armed Forces (ASFASPRO), the Unified Spanish Military (AUME), and the Troop Military (UMT), have expressed dissatisfaction with the proposed €200 increase. They argue that the increase is significantly less than their request for an €800 raise. These associations are now calling on political parties to sign a State Defense Pact that addresses the financial needs of Armed Forces members.
In their statement, the military groups emphasized that many soldiers and sailors currently earn salaries close to the Minimum Wage. They criticize the announced pay increase as a mere attempt to placate simmering military discontent, deeming it an 'authentic absurdity' given the broader context of anticipated future efforts.
Minister of Defense Margarita Robles has faced criticism for her handling of the announcement, particularly regarding the lack of prior consultation with relevant professional associations. The military unions have labeled this communication approach as a genuine belittlement, arguing that such a significant decision should involve consultation and consideration of their opinions.
As Spain looks to enhance its military compensation and improve its standing within NATO, the voices of military unions underscore the ongoing tensions surrounding remuneration in the Armed Forces. Whether the proposed increases will meet the expectations of military personnel remains to be seen.
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