Denmark Expands Military Draft to Include Women Amid Rising Security Concerns

Denmark Expands Military Draft to Include Women Amid Rising Security Concerns
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Women in Denmark who turn 18 are now eligible for military conscription, aligning the country with Sweden and Norway as it expands its armed forces to counter potential threats from Russia and meet NATO commitments. The policy, approved by Parliament in June, aims to boost troop numbers and took effect 18 months earlier than planned.

Women have long been able to volunteer but were excluded from compulsory service. Denmark plans to raise annual basic training recruits to 6,500 by 2027 and extend service from four to 11 months starting in 2026. Officials say this move addresses urgent defense needs rather than focusing on gender equality.

Denmark, which has about 16,600 uniformed personnel, is increasing defense spending after years of underfunding, citing concerns over Russian activity in the Arctic and Baltic regions. Women will be eligible for all roles if they meet physical requirements.