Crossing Continents - ‘A new foe’: Conscripting women in Denmark

Download ‘A new foe’: Conscripting women in Denmark

Denmark is eyeing up the military threat from Russia – and dramatically increasing the numbers in its national service. Now, 18-year-old girls are facing a call up. The BBC has been granted rare access to a military base on the outskirts of Copenhagen to see the newest recruits learn how to operate on the battlefield. Anna Holligan attends a “Defences Day” where teenagers find out whether they’re fit to serve, and draw a conscription lottery ticket that could shape their future.

Presenter: Anna Holligan Producer: Ellie House Production Coordinator: Katie Morrison Sound Mix: Rod Farquhar Editor: Penny Murphy

Published on Tuesday, 23rd September 2025.

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