Нерівномірність оборонних витрат серед країн-членів альянсу: виклики в умовах розширення

The article provides a theoretical and methodological justification and empirical analysis of the uneven distribution of defence spending among NATO member states in the context of the Alliance’s expansion, particularly in terms of the fair distribution of the financial burden, the institutional responsibility of participating states, and the impact of asymmetries on the effectiveness of the collective security system. Significant asymmetry in member countries’ contributions has been identified, leading to ongoing political debate on the issues of «fair burden sharing» and the effectiveness of the current financing model. Key milestones in NATO’s expansion have been examined, starting with the first phase of large-scale expansion in 1999. It has been determined that the accession of new members required adaptation to NATO financial standards, in particular the revision of defence financing structures, the modernisation of armed forces and the achievement of agreed budgetary targets. The defence expenditure of NATO countries as a percentage of GDP in 2024 has been analysed. It has been determined that a significant number of NATO member states, primarily from Central and Eastern Europe, demonstrate relatively low absolute levels of defence spending compared to leading Western allies. The dynamics of defence spending in the United States, Europe and Canada in 2014–2024 have been calculated. The total defence spending of NATO member states in 2024 has been calculated.