The compulsory military service in Denmark

The constitution Article 81 - National Service Act

Defence Agreements between (a majority) the political parties in parliament and the government Regular meetings between the Minister of Defence

and those political parties who have signed the Defence Agreement

“All men must serve” Conscientious objectors…

Foundation of the Compulsory Military Service in Denmark

Defence Agreement for 2005 – 2009: Major changes to the compulsory military service Changing focus from territorial defence to international

engagement

In line with the Danish security policy The Balkans, Iraq, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Operation

Ocean Shield. Since 1992: More than 26,000 soldiers have been serving

in international missions. Right now approximately 750 soldiers are in Helmand, Afghanistan.

New focus

Compulsory military service – the new system

Four months of basic training Previous conscripts served 8 – 12 months Exceptions – specific units at

Royal Life Guard Rgt, Royal Guards Hussars Rgt HMS “Dannebrog” Danish Emergency Management Agency

Right to voluntary service for women (1995)

”Defence Day”: The armed forces and The Danish Emergency Agency About 30,000 men are ordered to meet at Defence Day About 30,000 women are invited

Draft numbers: 2009: 91 per cent volunteers – 9 per cent drafted 2010: More than 93 per cent volunteers.

Compulsory military service in DenmarkWhat happens after Basic Training ?

Basic Training - conscript with 4 (8, 9 or 12) months

Territorial DefenceRegister (3 yrs.)

Reaction Force Training (Contract – 8 months)

International mission6 months

Professional soldiers

Reserve Forces

<80 pc

> 20 pc

The right number of conscripts for a shorter period of time:

A broad basis of recruitment Cost effective Popular anchoring A fair salary Training targeted for international operations

Pros and cons… Main lessons learned

Examination of the current compulsory military service system

• Adopted in the 2010 – 2014 Defence Agreement

• The compulsory system has always been a subject of political discussions.

• The current system marked the change from territorial defence to an international focus.

• The examination will involve assessments of the social and economic side-effects.

• Other focus areas:- Popular anchoring- Representative segment of the population- Securing a broad basis of recruitment- Cost-effectiveness

Questions?