Latvian Defense Minister Backs Mandatory Conscription for Women by 2028

Latvian Defense Minister Andris Sprūds expressed his support the mandatory conscription of women into the National Defense Service. He suggested that this new measure could be introduced in 2028.

This was reported by the Public Broadcasting of Latvia.

He emphasized the importance of the issue of gender equality, adding that this principle has already been implemented by Sweden, Norway and Denmark, and it will continue in the future.

“The big homework is discussions and dialogue within the coalition, also in parliament and society. It is very important that society supports it,” Spruds admitted, recalling that previously the majority of society did not support the introduction of compulsory service, but the opinion changed over time.

Sprūds stated that it is also essential to continue enhancing the National Defense Service and to adapt equipment and uniforms to accommodate female conscripts. Currently, women can apply on a voluntary basis.

"One of the potential goals of the road map would be the year 2028, when we are talking about 4,000 conscripts in the National Defense Service," said Sprūds.

In February 2024, the country introduced mandatory military service for men aged 18 to 27. This decision was made amid concerns of a potential Russian invasion in Europe.

Following the incident in early September when a Russian Shahed drone crashed in Latvia’s Rezekne region, the country’s Ministry of Defense has deployed mobile air defense groups to the eastern border. According to a report by Delfi, this move is part of Latvia’s increased defense efforts amid rising security concerns.