Recently, the House of Representatives passed a bill that automatically registers men aged 18 to 25 for the Selective Service, readying them for potential conscription if the draft were ever reinstated. Following suit, the Senate Armed Services Committee advanced a version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) proposing that women should also register for the draft.

While the United States hasn’t seen a draft since 1973, the military faces challenges in recruitment, sparking renewed debates on the necessity of compulsory service. The Selective Service System mandates registration for men aged 18 to 25, with women historically excluded until 2013 due to combat role restrictions, fully lifted in 2016. The Senate’s proposal, if enacted, reflects evolving views, recognizing women’s equal capability and willingness to serve in various military capacities. This legislative change aligns with efforts to promote gender equality within our armed forces.

These discussions unfold against a backdrop of declining recruitment, influenced by a competitive job market, shifting societal norms, and concerns over military life and safety. While requiring women to register for the Selective Service would represent a step towards gender parity in national defense, it also raises fundamental questions about the military’s evolving role and the ethical considerations of conscription.