In a move to bolster its defense forces, Denmark is set to expand its military conscription program to include women and extend the service duration for both genders from four to eleven months. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that this decision is not about seeking conflict but rather about preventing it.
“We do not rearm because we want war. We are rearming because we want to avoid it,” Frederiksen stated firmly during a recent press conference. This decision reflects Denmark’s commitment to gender equality, aiming for “full equality between the sexes” in its armed forces.
Currently, Denmark has around 9,000 professional troops, supplemented by approximately 4,700 conscripts undergoing basic training. The government plans to increase the number of conscripts by 300, reaching a total of 5,000. This move comes amid Denmark’s NATO membership and strong support for Ukraine in its conflict against Russia’s invasion.
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen clarified that while Russia does not pose a direct threat to Denmark, the nation must be prepared to defend itself. “We will not bring ourselves to a place where they could come to do that,” Rasmussen affirmed.
Under the existing system, all physically fit men over 18 are called up for four months of military service. However, due to sufficient volunteer numbers, a lottery system is used, leading to not all young men serving. In 2023, there were 4,717 conscripts in Denmark, with women accounting for 25.1% of the cohort.
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen outlined that the new system would necessitate a legal change, expected in 2025, with the changes taking effect in 2026. Poulsen emphasized that a broader recruitment base including all genders is crucial for building a more diverse and effective defense.
The proposed plan includes five months of basic training followed by six months of operational service and supplementary training. This move mirrors Sweden’s decision in 2017 to reinstate conscription for both men and women due to the deteriorating security environment in Europe. Sweden had previously abolished compulsory military service for men in 2010 due to sufficient volunteer numbers. Norway also adopted conscription for both sexes in 2013.
Denmark’s decision reflects a proactive approach to national defense, aiming to enhance preparedness and promote peace through strength.
(Source: BBC | The Guardian | Associated Press)
