Women can now be drafted in Netherlands
Defense Minister Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert told the lower house Tweede Kamer that under a new law the Dutch compulsory military service rules will also apply to women.
However, the compulsory military service has been suspended since 1996 and there is little chance of its reintroduction. It is however a symbolic step for equality between men and women, requested by the PvdA and D66 (left-leaning parties). The bill will go for voting in autumn.
There are currently 3,689 female soldiers in the military and 38,400 men. In the late 70’s the Royal Military Academy was also opened to women, meaning that women can also become an officer.