In a publication for Latvijas Avīze, Ine Moreng, the Ambassador of Norway, explains that the Scandinavian kingdom has been implementing mandatory conscription for men and women aged 19 to 44 for a year now for the past 10 years, after which reservists are enrolled in the National Guard.
In the event of war, the age limit will be raised to 55 years. Of course, not everyone joins the army, but it is a choice. Last year, women made up 32% of conscripts and 17% of professional service members. Norway even has a special 'Hunter Squad' consisting only of women. 'The experience gained during the war in Afghanistan showed that it is women who can successfully handle critically important tasks such as gathering intelligence and communicating with women and children in deeply conservative societies.'
Allies strongly recommend: 'The resilience of society is strengthened by the confidence instilled in residents regarding our shared responsibility and readiness. This suggests that broad segments of society will acquire critically important skills and civic conviction, which in turn will strengthen both national defense and contribute to societal unity.'
