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The compulsory military service in Denmark

Explore the foundation, changes, and pros and cons of the compulsory military service in Denmark, including the shift towards international engagement. Learn about the new system, exemptions, the Territorial Defence Register, and the roles of professional soldiers and reserve forces.

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The compulsory military service in Denmark

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  1. The compulsory military service in Denmark

  2. Foundation of 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…

  3. New focus • 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Compulsory military service in DenmarkWhat happens after Basic Training ? Territorial Defence Register (3 yrs.) Professional soldiers Reserve Forces International mission6 months < 80 pc > 20 pc Basic Training - conscript with 4 (8, 9 or 12) months Reaction Force Training (Contract – 8 months)

  6. Pros and cons… Main lessons learned 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

  7. 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

  8. Questions?

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