Germany is taking steps to enhance gender equality in its armed forces, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Cabinet implementing measures to boost opportunities for women in the military, DW reports.
The changes align with recent strengthened equal opportunity laws for the entire government and come as Germany seeks to strengthen its military capabilities in response to the conflict in Ukraine.
Women remain underrepresented in the Bundeswehr, making up only 9.5% of the total and 45% in the medical corps, falling short of the government's desired representation of over 20%. To address this, the reforms primarily focus on improving pay during active duty and in the reserves, as well as providing better support for childcare and caring for family members.
The goal is to attract more women to the military and contribute to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which emphasizes the empowerment of women and girls. While Germany's parliament and private sector have made efforts to promote gender parity, the military remains a predominantly male domain, a trend observed in many countries worldwide.
Germany's defense ministry aims to add 20,000 troops by 2031 to improve military capabilities. However, attracting candidates is challenging, given an aging workforce and increasing competition for qualified personnel. The military also needs to meet the expectations of Generation Z, who prioritize flexibility and individual freedom in their work.
Sexual harassment remains a concern within the ranks, with the Bundeswehr facing nearly 850 cases between 2018-2020, highlighting the need for workplace safety, particularly for women.
The government's focus on equal opportunity and inclusivity in the armed forces is part of a broader effort to transform the military and enhance its recruitment strategies while addressing gender disparities and promoting a more diverse and representative Bundeswehr.
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