Leading European organisations representing the telecommunications, water, electricity and healthcare sectors have welcomed NATO Allies’ commitment to invest up to 1.5% of GDP in societal resilience by 2035.

In a joint statement, the groups said the funding should deliver tangible improvements to critical infrastructure rather than become an accounting exercise. They stressed that stronger resilience is essential to ensure vital services (including communications) remain operational during crises.

The organizations also welcomed NATO Allies’ first reporting of resilience spending at the Ankara Summit, describing it as an important milestone. They pledged to work with Allied governments, NATO and EU institutions by providing operational expertise to help translate the investment commitment into lasting resilience capabilities that strengthen essential services and benefit citizens across Europe.

The statement was signed by Connect Europe, EurEau, Eurelectric and the European Hospital and Healthcare Federation (HOPE).