The US military is facing recruitment challenges, with a shortfall of 41,000 recruits in 2023. As a result, Congress has proposed several reforms to the draft system, including making women eligible for the draft. On June 14, the House of Representatives approved a bill that expands the maximum age for the draft from 25 to 26, while the Senate passed a bill requiring women to register for the draft. However, these bills face opposition from some Republicans and may not become law.
The debate about whether women should be included in the draft has been ongoing since 2020 when a group of military experts recommended this measure. Despite efforts to promote inclusivity in the armed forces, not all members of Congress agree with this proposal. Senator Josh Hawley expressed opposition on Fox News, arguing that women should not be forced to serve in the military against their will.
The debate over the draft and women’s role in it will likely continue as Congress grapples with ways to address recruitment challenges in the US military. While some argue that making women eligible for the draft would increase diversity and inclusivity in the armed forces, others worry about potential negative consequences such as decreased readiness and morale among troops. Ultimately, only time will tell whether this controversial proposal will become a reality and how it will impact American society and foreign policy globally.
