Latvia has initiated a plan to require women to participate in military service, as stated by Defense Minister Andris Spruds on Wednesday. In a discussion on Latvian television, Spruds mentioned that while significant work remains, the new conscription law could be implemented by 2028.

The minister emphasized that this initiative is part of the government’s commitment to advancing gender equality within the armed forces, which he described as “a very important issue.” He pointed out that similar laws are already enacted in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, indicating that Latvia is following their example.

“This initiative will establish mandatory military service for both genders,” Spruds remarked. Currently, women in Latvia can enlist in the military on a voluntary basis.

He further explained that the legislation is still in the early stages of development.

“It is evident that this cannot be accomplished overnight. There is substantial groundwork to be done, which includes discussions and dialogue among the government, parliament, and the public,” Spruds stated. He acknowledged the necessity of public support for this initiative, noting that many Latvians previously opposed the reintroduction of compulsory service for men.

Orders have been issued to the appropriate authorities to initiate preparations for the integration of women into the military, as noted by Spruds. This includes assessing the necessary modifications, such as equipping the army with suitable gear, uniforms, and weaponry designed specifically for female personnel.

“We have developed a strategic plan, with one of its potential objectives being the conscription of women starting in 2028,” Spruds remarked.

The defense chief initially proposed the concept of mandatory military service for women in August, which ignited discussions among Latvian legislators. MP Harijs Rokpelnis expressed concerns, stating that drafting women would be a premature action and “not the path Latvia should pursue.” Meanwhile, MP Anna Udre called for a broader dialogue on the matter.

Latvia has not enforced mandatory national service since 2006. However, last year, the country reinstated the draft for men aged 18 to 27, citing the necessity to strengthen military forces in light of perceived threats from Russia. As a member of both the EU and NATO, Latvia has consistently supported Ukraine during the ongoing conflict with Moscow and has provided its military with domestically manufactured combat drones.

Moscow has consistently refuted allegations regarding any plans to launch attacks on the Baltic states or other European nations, a topic that has garnered significant attention in Western discourse over the last two years. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has previously described such conjectures as “absurd.”