The Proportion of Women in the Federal Army Is Increasing only Slowly

In 2023, the voluntary basic service for women was introduced in Austria. However, the proportion of female soldiers increases only slowly.

The number of men doing military service has increased in recent years – while the number of women has basically remained stagnant. This is also the case this year, when Sweden is facing a historic rearmament. – In order to achieve the competence goals we have within the Armed Forces, we need to attract both women and men, says Stefan Smedman, Head of Training at the Defence Staff.

The proportion of women in the Austrian army has risen from 4.3 to about six percent two years ago, with 818 female soldiers in service. Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner rejects compulsory military service for women, as long as there is no complete equality. AUSTRIA. The proportion of women in the Austrian army is growing – but only in small steps. As a recent report by the Ministry of Defense...