Denmark has initiated a significant shift in its military policy by drafting women into compulsory military service. This decision is aimed at addressing potential threats from Russia and bolstering NATO commitments.
Denmark Drafts Women for Military Service Amid Russian Threat
Denmark Drafts Women for Military Service Amid Russian Threat
In a landmark move, Denmark expands its draft to include women in response to rising security concerns linked to Russia.
On July 1, 2025, Denmark officially began drafting women into its military forces, marking a historic first for the Nordic country. This policy change comes in light of escalating tensions with Russia, particularly following its invasion of Ukraine. The Danish Parliament greenlit the inclusion of women in the draft following an agreement reached in March.
Michael W. Hyldgaard, Denmark's defense chief, emphasized the urgency of enhancing defense capabilities, stating, "The defense needs all the fighting power we can mobilize. This requires that we recruit from all over society." Previously, women were permitted to volunteer for military service but were excluded from the lottery system for mandatory conscription, which only included male entrants.
With this new initiative, women aged 18 and older will now be eligible for military service, a move designed to fill gaps arising from an escalating defense strategy. Women currently comprised roughly 10% of the Danish armed forces, with the government relying on volunteerism to meet personnel needs due to limited conscription numbers prior to this change.
Denmark's proactive measures in military expansion reflect a broader trend among NATO members to strengthen defense postures against perceived threats. As the nation of six million boosts its military spending and enacts this draft expansion, concerns persist regarding Russia's ambitions in regions such as the Arctic and the Baltic Sea.
Experts like Mikkel Runge Olesen from the Danish Institute for International Studies caution that while direct threats may seem remote, the policy shift is prompted by a need for heightened preparedness. Moreover, the Danish government continues to prioritize bolstering its military forces in a rapidly changing global security landscape.
