Spain's military risk recognition leaves half in the cold

A landmark move by the Spanish Ministry of Defence to formally recognize the military profession as a high-risk occupation has hit a snag, potentially creating a two-tiered system and leaving roughly half of Spain’s armed forces excluded. While hailed as a victory for long-standing demands for improved benefits like early retirement, the details of the legislation have sparked widespread consternation among professional military associations.

The cotization divide: a systemic flaw

The core of the controversy lies in Spain’s social security system. According to the proposed changes, the “high-risk” designation—and the accompanying benefits—will only apply to military personnel enrolled in the General Social Security Scheme, those who joined the forces after 2011. This effectively excludes approximately half of the military, who remain under the older “Passive Classes” system. The consequence? Soldiers performing identical duties, facing comparable dangers, could find themselves with vastly different retirement prospects.

As one military association bluntly put it, “The risk is identical, whether in Iraq, Lebanon, or any other deployment, regardless of the regime to which each member belongs.” This sentiment underscores the core grievance: the same profession, the same dangers, should warrant the same recognition and rewards.

Beyond pensions: a broader principle at stake

The potential benefits of recognizing the military as a high-risk profession extend beyond early retirement. It could pave the way for reduced retirement ages with no pension penalties—a privilege currently enjoyed by police and firefighters. This initiative comes after years of lobbying by military associations and parliamentary groups, particularly relevant given the increasing number of international missions and their inherent risks. However, the proposed limitations have cast a shadow over this progress.

Legal precedent further complicates the situation. Spain's Supreme Court has already ruled against disparities within national police forces, highlighting the principle of equality within the armed forces. Organizations like AUME, ASFASPRO, and UMT have issued a joint statement condemning the proposal, arguing it creates an “internal rift” within the military.

A call for remedial action

Military associations are now demanding a broader application of the recognition or, at the very least, compensatory measures for those excluded. Potential solutions include establishing a “bridge” between the two social security regimes, increasing regulated earnings, or allowing voluntary transfer to the reserve at age 58 for officers and non-commissioned officers, with continued advancement within the reserve ranks.

The discontent isn’t solely focused on the content of the legislation; the process is also under fire. Several associations have criticized the lack of in-depth debate in representative bodies before the announcement. The process of formal adoption is protracted, requiring technical reports, negotiations within the Armed Forces Personnel Council, and final approval by the Council of Ministers. Even for those who stand to benefit, the practical effects are likely to be delayed.

The Ministry of Defence recently committed €1 billion in additional military aid to Ukraine and will co-manufacture drones – but this sweeping reform’s current design threatens to undermine the sense of unity within Spain’s own armed forces.