Denmark to Extend Military Conscription to Women and Increase Defence Budget

Denmark has announced intentions to lengthen the regular service duration and open military conscription to women for the first time, a major step towards strengthening its defence capabilities. This strategic decision comes amidst escalating tensions in Europe following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that the motive behind these reforms is not to incite conflict but to prevent it. “We do not rearm because we want war. We are rearming because we want to avoid it,” stated PM Frederiksen.

The proposed reforms, unveiled on Wednesday, aim to achieve “full equality between the sexes,” according to Ms. Frederiksen. Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of gender equality in addressing defence challenges and national mobilization.

Denmark’s plans include introducing female conscription from 2026, making it only the third European nation – alongside Norway and Sweden – to mandate women’s service in the armed forces. Additionally, the conscription service duration will be extended from four to 11 months for both men and women.

Last year, approximately 4,700 individuals served in the military, with women constituting about 25% of the total. Under the new measures, the number of military personnel will increase to 5,000 per year. Currently, Denmark’s armed forces comprise around 20,000 active personnel, including approximately 9,000 professional troops.

To support these initiatives and meet targets set by the NATO military alliance, Denmark is planning to boost its defence budget by nearly $6 billion (£4.6bn) over the next five years. The country aims to raise its military spending from the current 1.4% of GDP to 2%.

Denmark has emerged as a staunch supporter of Ukraine, providing advanced weapons, financial aid, and training to Ukrainian pilots on US-made F-16 warplanes. Amidst growing security concerns, two Nordic countries – Finland and Sweden – have recently joined NATO, underscoring the alliance’s efforts to reinforce its defenses in Europe in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The reforms announced by Denmark signify a proactive approach towards strengthening its national security and contributing to regional stability. By embracing gender equality in military conscription and bolstering its defence capabilities, Denmark seeks to adapt to evolving geopolitical dynamics and safeguard its interests in an increasingly uncertain world.

Author: DA

Source: BBC, Denmark to start conscripting women for military service