International
oi-Ashish Rana
The princess Isabella of Denmark has finally started her 11-month military service training becoming the first female member of Danish royal family in the history. The 19-years-old princess reported for duty at the Guard Hussar Regiment’s Antvorskov Barracks in Slagelse on 3rd August, making the history chapter in both military and Danish monarchy.
On August 3rd, Princess Isabella of Denmark began her 11-month military service at the Guard Hussar Regiment, becoming the first female royal to do so and declining military pay as Denmark strengthens its armed forces and expands conscription for women.
First Royal Woman to Join Denmark’s Military Conscription
Princess Isabella, the eldest daughter of King Frederik X and Queen Mary came to military base just after few weeks completing her high school. Making it very low key, she drove her black SUV to the barracks after coming out of her summer break.
She joined the long-standing tradition for Denmark royal family after her elder brother, Crown prince Christian also completed his military service at the same barracks and now he is taking training for second lieutenant.
Princess Declines Military Salary
Unlike her other royal family members, Princess Isabella has decided to not accept the salary and daily allowances provided by the military. According to the Danish royal family, she will get financial support from her parents in her overall military training.
According to Denmark rules, the conscripts usually gets a monthly salary alongside tax-free daily allowances while their training period.
Denmark Strengthens Armed Forces
Princess Isabella’s move came at the time when Denmark is expanding its military response to change security challenges across Europe. Russia-Ukraine war, growing concern over Arctic security, and NATO’s increased focus on regional defence have forced country to strength its armed forces.
In 2024, Denmark announced compulsory military training for women and also extended the service period from four months to 11 months. This move has taken to increase military readiness in the country and recruit more army personnel.
What Happens Next?
Now 1600 young people have started 11-month military programme in this week itself. After this month, some of recruits will be deployed to Greenland for operational duties for the first time, making Denmark focus on Arctic security.
With this movie, Princess Isabella will inspire many young girls to take up military training and join military services.
