Denmark has enacted a new law requiring women to register for military conscription at age 18, joining men in a lottery-based selection system.

Axar.az, citing BBC, reports that previously voluntary for women, military service will now be mandatory if selected, with service duration extended from 4 to 11 months.

Volunteers will be prioritized, and any remaining slots will be filled via lottery.

The move, driven by rising security concerns in Europe, aims to boost Denmark’s military readiness and meet NATO targets. The number of annual conscripts is expected to increase from 4,700 to 6,500 by 2033. Denmark follows similar steps taken by Sweden and Norway in including women in the conscription.

The Danish military says the decision is political and based on the current security landscape, aiming to strengthen all branches, including special forces.