In a historic move, Denmark will implement full gender equality in military conscription beginning July 1, 2025, as announced by Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen (Venstre) during a press conference. This decision marks a significant shift in Danish defence policy, bringing women under the same compulsory military service rules as men.
Women to be called for ‘Forsvarets Dag’ from 2026
Under the new law, all Danish women turning 18 after July 1, 2025, will be required to attend Forsvarets Dag (Defence Day) starting in 2026. This assessment day determines suitability for military service and includes a lottery system used to fill ranks when voluntary enlistment falls short. Until now, women had the right to volunteer (værneret), but not the obligation (værnepligt). Approximately 25% of current conscripts are female, all serving voluntarily.
“In light of the current defence and security situation, the Danish Armed Forces need to recruit more people. Advancing full equality in conscription sends an important signal,” said Poulsen.
Political agreement removes legislative roadblocks
The fast-tracking of the reform was made possible after Liberal Alliance changed its stance and joined the cross-party defence agreement originally established in June 2023. The initial timeline had full gender equality set for 2027, but opposition from Liberal Alliance and Danmarksdemokraterne had stalled the plan. With the new consensus, the Ministry of Defence is expected to pass a consolidated bill this spring.
The reform eliminates the need for an interim two-step legislation process that would have implemented partial gender equality in 2025 and full equality by 2027. A brief public consultation on the unified law will be held from March 26 to April 2.
Defence readiness and inclusion goals
Concerns have been raised over whether the Danish military is equipped to accommodate more women. Some criticisms have focused on equipment design and barracks conditions. However, acting Chief of Defence Michael W. Hyldgaard dismissed these worries: “Equality is good. It increases our ability to build combat power in the Armed Forces.”
Hyldgaard emphasized that diversity enhances task-solving and creates a stronger military. Poulsen echoed that preparations are underway to ensure facilities and gear are suitable for all recruits, regardless of gender.
Longer service and force expansion in the pipeline
This reform is part of a broader overhaul of Denmark’s defence structure. The number of conscripts is set to rise from 4,700 to up to 7,500, and the duration of conscription will increase from four to eleven months starting in August 2026.
Additionally, the development of Denmark’s 1st Brigade (“heerens knytnæve”, or “the army’s fist”) will be accelerated by three to five years. The Government plans to invest DKK 12 billion (approx. €1.6 billion) to meet NATO readiness standards earlier than the previous 2032 target. Other defence investments include a new ground-based air defence system and the potential acquisition of two air-to-air refuelling aircraft for the Danish F-35 fleet.
A signal to society and NATO
With this move, Denmark becomes one of the few NATO countries with mandatory military service for both men and women. The reform reflects both strategic needs and a societal push for gender equality. As Forsvarets Dag becomes compulsory for all 18-year-olds, the message is clear: in the face of growing geopolitical threats, Denmark is calling on its entire population—regardless of gender—to help strengthen national defence.
