Denmark has introduced a new law requiring women to participate in military service when they turn 18. The change comes amid increased security concerns in Europe and follows the example of neighboring countries Sweden and Norway, which have also implemented conscription for women.
Under the new rules, both men and women will be required to register for potential military service, with volunteers recruited first. The remaining spots will be filled through a lottery system, which could require women to serve for 11 months. This is an increase from the previous four-month period.
The move is part of Denmark’s efforts to boost defense spending and meet NATO targets. The government has announced a 40.5 billion Danish crowns (£4.3bn, $5.9bn) increase in defense spending over the next five years.
Currently, about 9,000 professional personnel serve in Denmark’s military, with about 24% of them being female volunteers. The new rules are expected to see the overall number of people doing military service annually rise to 6,500 by 2033.
Colonel Kenneth Strom, head of the conscription programme, believes the change is necessary to address the current security situation and increase combat power. Katrine, a current volunteer in Denmark’s military, supports the move, saying it’s essential for women to contribute equally to national defense.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1e0094n5d3o