Greece proposes voluntary female conscription to bolster armed forces amid defense reforms

Athens: Greece is on the brink of a significant military reform, with Defense Minister Nikos Dendias recently announcing plans for the voluntary conscription of women as part of a broader defense reorganization. This move aims to leverage all societal forces in defense, marking a pivotal shift towards gender equality in the Hellenic Armed Forces and addressing the numerical challenge posed by neighboring countries.

Since 1977, women have been allowed to serve in various capacities within the Greek military, yet their participation has been purely voluntary. As of 2023, women constitute approximately 16.8% of the total military personnel, with their presence being notably higher in the Air Force. The proposed change seeks not only to increase the number of women in the armed forces but also to integrate them more fully into combat and operational roles. This initiative reflects an evolving perspective on the role of women in the military, aiming to strengthen the nation’s defense capabilities through a more inclusive approach.

Dendias highlighted the strategic necessity of this move, pointing to the demographic and military disparities between Greece and its neighbor, Turkey. He underscored the impossibility of relying solely on a professional army to counter potential threats, given Greece’s population size. The defense minister’s vision includes an upgraded reserve force, capable of enhancing Greece’s defensive posture through modern technology and continuous retraining. This approach not only broadens the scope of national defense but also aligns with modern warfare’s evolving demands, emphasizing the need for a well-educated and technologically adept military force.

Further to integrating women into the armed forces, the Greek Ministry of Defense is contemplating several modernization initiatives. These include upgrading military educational institutions, establishing a joint IT body for cyber security, and introducing departments focused on Artificial Intelligence and Big Data. These reforms, part of the “Agenda 2030”, signify a comprehensive overhaul of the Greek military, aiming to enhance its deterrent power significantly. As stated by Dendias, this reformation could represent one of the most substantial in the history of the Greek state, highlighting the government’s commitment to a robust and forward-looking defense strategy.