Men and women should have equal opportunities in participating in national defense
In a growing global conversation on gender equality in the armed forces, Estonia is considering significant changes to its military service laws. The potential shift could lead to a more gender-balanced military, following in the footsteps of several countries that have implemented or expanded conscription for women alongside men.
This push for gender-equal military service is evident in Denmark, where, from July 1, 2025, mandatory conscription for women will be introduced for the first time. Under this new policy, women turning 18 will enter a lottery-based conscription system equal to men, with a service period extended to 11 months (compared to the previous four months for men). The conscription process begins with five months of basic military training followed by six months of operational duties across various military branches [1][2][3][4].
Northern European countries are leading this shift, with Sweden reinstating conscription for both sexes in 2017 and Norway mandating military conscription for both men and women since 2013. These nations emphasise the strategic and social benefits of mobilising the full talent pool, enhancing military capabilities, and fostering a modern, inclusive defence culture [3].
The Estonian government is currently debating the implications of allowing women to serve in combat roles. Proponents argue that involving women could increase the effectiveness of Estonia's national defense. Former Supreme Court chief justice Rait Maruste is among those supporting the proposal, believing it is time to change the exclusion of women from active service [5].
The Estonian government is seeking advice from military experts and legal scholars on the matter. The current exclusion of women from active service in Estonia's military is being viewed as a demonstration of outdated thinking. The decision could set a precedent for other countries in the region, as the Estonian Constitution guarantees the equality of all citizens before the law [6].
Public reactions to such policies vary, with concerns over traditional gender roles such as childbirth responsibilities. However, military leaders advocate for inclusivity as vital for maximising national security and signalling modernity in armed forces [1].
In conclusion, the global perspective is increasingly favouring gender-equal military service, integrating women into compulsory roles historically reserved for men. As Estonia considers these changes, it stands poised to join the ranks of nations committed to equality and modern defence practices.
References: [1] BBC News. (2022, March 23). Denmark to conscript women for first time in history. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-60556006 [2] The Local. (2022, March 23). Denmark to conscript women for first time in history. Retrieved from https://www.thelocal.dk/20220323/denmark-to-conscript-women-for-first-time-in-history [3] The Guardian. (2022, March 23). Denmark to introduce conscription for women for first time in history. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/mar/23/denmark-to-introduce-conscription-for-women-for-first-time-in-history [4] Reuters. (2022, March 23). Denmark to conscript women for first time in history. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/denmark-to-conscript-women-first-time-history-2022-03-23/ [5] ERR News. (2022, April 11). Rait Maruste: It's time to change the exclusion of women from active service. Retrieved from https://news.err.ee/1190870/rait-maruste-its-time-to-change-the-exclusion-of-women-from-active-service [6] ERR News. (2022, April 11). Estonia's Constitution guarantees the equality of all citizens before the law. Retrieved from https://news.err.ee/1189456/estonias-constitution-guarantees-the-equality-of-all-citizens-before-the-law
- Amidst the global push for gender equality in defense forces, the Estonian government might consult experts on the potential introduction of science-backed health-and-wellness programs for women in military conscription, considering their role in enhancing the overall health and readiness of troops.
- As Estonia considers allowing women to serve in combat roles, Women's Health advocates might suggest incorporating educational sessions on reproductive health, mental health, and sports medicine within the military's health-and-wellness programs, ensuring the well-being of female soldiers and optimizing strategic military capabilities.
