More than half of female conscripts report unwanted sexual attention during military service in Denmark

More than half of female conscripts reported experiencing at least one incident of unwanted sexual attention and harassment during their military service, according to a new Defense report. The women indicated that they often encountered derogatory comments about both genders, felt sidelined for tasks due to their gender, and felt the need to overperform because of it. Most incidents were reportedly caused by fellow conscripts.

Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen acknowledged the concerning statistic, emphasizing the need for further action. He noted the historical lack of political focus on these issues but is committed to ensuring the military is a safe and welcoming work environment. From 2027 onward, full gender equality in military service is expected, which could lead to a significant increase in female participation.

The report reveals ongoing issues within the military, as several women have shared their personal experiences of misconduct. There is a clear call for improved support systems for female conscripts, making it easier for them to report incidents and seek assistance. The organization Women Veterans expressed eagerness for ongoing efforts to address these problems and create a more positive experience for future servicewomen.

The survey indicated that 53.5% of female conscripts have faced unwanted sexual attention compared to 18.9% of male conscripts. Common forms of harassment include derogatory remarks (36.0%), exclusion from tasks (31.3%), and the pressure to excel (24.9%). While there has been some progress in addressing cultural issues within the military, stakeholders agree that much more needs to be done to confront and eradicate misconduct effectively.