Denmark to Implement Conscription Lottery for Women Amid NATO Security Push

Denmark Introduces Conscription Lottery for Women

Denmark is implementing a new law that will require women to participate in a conscription lottery, potentially serving 11 months in the military at age 18. This decision comes as NATO countries increase their defense budgets due to heightened security concerns in Europe.

Key Changes to Danish Conscription

Under the new rules, both men and women turning 18 must register for potential military service. Volunteers will be recruited first. If additional personnel are needed, a lottery system will be used to fill the remaining positions. The conscription period is also being extended from four to 11 months.

Previously, women could volunteer for military service. About 4,700 Danish men and women undertook a short period of military service in 2024 with approximately 24% being female volunteers. The new rules aim to increase the total number of conscripts to 6,500 annually by 2033.

Rationale Behind the Decision

Denmark is following the example of neighboring countries like Sweden and Norway, which have also implemented conscription for women. The Danish government also announced a significant increase in defense spending over the next five years to meet NATO targets.

Colonel Kenneth Strom, head of the Danish military's conscription program, stated that the change is a political decision based on the current security situation. It aims to enhance combat power and ensure the military has the necessary skills for various branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Special Operations Forces.

Katrine, a current military volunteer, expressed support for the change, stating: "In the world situation we're in right now, it's necessary to have more conscripts, and I think that women should contribute to that equally, as men do. I think it's a positive change."