In a landmark shift, Denmark military conscription has now made military conscription mandatory for both men and women turning 18, aligning itself with other Scandinavian nations that have embraced gender-equal defence obligations. The move comes amid growing regional security threats and a collective NATO push for enhanced readiness.
Effective from Tuesday, the law requires that young women register for military assessment, alongside their male counterparts, with potential conscription determined via a national lottery system. The duration of military service has also been increased from four to 11 months for all conscripts.
From Voluntary to Mandatory: A Gender-Neutral Conscription Model
Until now, Danish women could volunteer for military service. In 2024, about 24% of the 4,700 people who served were female volunteers. However, the new law removes the gender distinction, mandating that all 18-year-olds participate in the same registration and lottery system Denmark military conscription.
Volunteers will still be given priority in selection, but if quotas are not met, a randomized lottery will determine who must serve.
NATO Compliance and Defence Expansion
This conscription reform is part of a larger strategy to meet NATO obligations. In March 2025 Denmark military conscription, the Danish government announced a 40.5 billion Danish crowns ($5.9 billion) boost in defence spending over the next five years. The goal: to raise annual conscript numbers to 6,500 by 2033.
Colonel Kenneth Strom, head of the conscription program, stated, “This change is based on political consensus and the current security climate Denmark military conscription. The aim is to expand our military capacity and equip our branches — Army, Navy, Air Force, and Special Operations — with critical skills.”
Following Nordic Neighbours’ Lead
Denmark’s move follows similar policies in Sweden and Norway, which introduced gender-equal conscription in recent years as part of broader efforts to modernize military strategy and promote equality.
The broader region has seen heightened concerns over security following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Scandinavian countries have been particularly proactive in strengthening defence capabilities and integration with NATO.
Public Response and Youth Perspective
Reaction in Denmark has been largely supportive, especially among younger citizens. Katrine, a current female volunteer, told Reuters: “In the world situation we’re in right now, it’s necessary to have more conscripts, and I think that women should contribute equally as men. I think it’s a positive change.”
The updated system also allows the military to recruit conscripts into different divisions depending on aptitude — including the Special Operations Forces — giving many young Danes a chance to gain career-shaping experience.
Conclusion: A Modern Military Model
Denmark’s new law is more than just a conscription update — it is a statement of gender equality in national service and a pragmatic response to an increasingly uncertain global landscape. As Europe braces for future security challenges, Denmark positions itself at the forefront of NATO-aligned readiness with a diverse and prepared military force.
Explore more updates on European military and defence shifts
External References
