Sweden's defense spending is set to increase to 2.5% of GDP by 2030, in alignment with NATO membership expectations and the pressing need for defense adaptation amidst a volatile global situation.

The Defense Committee, comprising members from all parliamentary parties, has been at the forefront of advocating for this significant hike from the current level, slightly above 2%, to meet and surpass NATO's minimum requirement.

However, the proposal has ignited a heated debate over how the increased expenditure should be funded, with suggestions ranging from imposing a special tax on high-income individuals to other financial mechanisms.

As the deadline for the Defense Committee's final report approaches, negotiations continue amidst a backdrop of consensus on the necessity of bolstering defense capabilities but considerable discord on funding methods.