Denmark has introduced a lottery system for compulsory military service, extending it to women for the first time in its history. The decision comes as the country seeks to bolster its armed forces in the face of growing security concerns, particularly in response to potential threats from Russia. Prior to this development, women were only allowed to volunteer for military service, with approximately a quarter of the 5,000 recruits in the 2024 cohort being female volunteers.
The move is part of a broader effort by Denmark to increase its military readiness and meet international obligations, including commitments under NATO. The Danish government has emphasized that this change is necessary to address the changing nature of modern warfare and the need for a more diverse and capable armed force. While the policy has been widely supported by military leaders, some civil society groups have raised concerns about the impact on gender equality and the potential for increased pressure on working women.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has defended the decision, stating that national security is a top priority and that the expansion of conscription is essential to maintaining Denmark’s position as a reliable NATO ally. The policy also reflects a growing trend among European nations to reconsider their approaches to military service in light of evolving geopolitical tensions.