Women in Denmark now face the possibility of being called up for 11 months of military service when they turn 18, following the introduction of new legislation.

Under the rules passed by the Danish parliament and reported by the BBC, women—like men—will participate in a lottery system that could result in an 11-month period of compulsory military service.

Until now, women could serve in the armed forces from the age of 18, but only on a voluntary basis.

Now, both men and women turning 18 must register to be assessed for possible military service. Volunteers will be called up first, while any remaining vacancies will be filled by lottery. At the same time, the duration of the service term increases from four to eleven months.

The changes are being implemented as NATO countries ramp up their defence spending.

About 4,700 Danes, men and women, served in the military in 2024. Of these, nearly 24% were women serving voluntarily. The new conscription rules are expected to increase the total number of conscripts annually to 6,500 by 2033.

Approximately 9,000 professional personnel serve in the Danish army.

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