EU Opens Innovation Funding to Military Technology, Raising Civilian Harm Concerns

The European Union is expanding access to civilian innovation funding for technologies with both military and civilian applications. The change could allow programs such as Horizon Europe and the European Innovation Council Accelerator to support defense-related projects, including artificial intelligence, drones, cybersecurity, satellites, and advanced materials. Supporters say the policy will strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy, industrial resilience, and defense capabilities. Critics warn it could divert money from civilian research, weaken transparency, and increase the risk that EU-funded technologies contribute to civilian harm in conflict zones.