In February 2025, the mobilization of conscripts continued in Ukraine in connection with a continuing war against Russia. However, unlike men, for women who want to join the Armed Forces of Ukraine, innovation is a change in military service legislation.
Recently, the President of Ukraine has signed a law that amends the Law of Ukraine on Military Duty and Military Service, expanding the opportunities for women to serve in the army. However, it is important to note that the conscription of women to military service is not obligatory and is carried out exclusively on a voluntary basis .
How will mobilization for women change?
According to the current legislation, conscription applies to men aged 25 to 60 years. Women, on the other hand, can only serve at their own request. The law clearly stipulates that women's mobilization can only occur with their voluntary consent.
Kateryna Onishchenko, a lawyer, notes that although women's mobilization is not forced, many women already serve in the army voluntarily by signing contracts. However, today it is not about complete mobilization of women .
Mandatory Military Accounting for Women
According to the new rules, Ukrainians who wish to serve in the Armed Forces should be on military account. This applies to women who have medical or pharmaceutical education, provided that their health allows it. Such a requirement means that women's data will be entered in the Register, but that does not mean that they will be called for service without their consent. The information is collected in order for the authorities to have a clear understanding of the number of potential conscripts in the key areas.
Contract and basic military training
Women who want to serve in the army can conclude a contract for military service. In addition, those who meet health and age requirements provide for the possibility of basic military training.
The rights of pregnant women in military service
It is worth noting that women who serve in the army and become pregnant are entitled to dismissal from pregnancy or childcare leave.
Changes in the military legislation of Ukraine, in particular on the participation of women in military service, are important in the context of current war with Russia. They provide more opportunities for women who want to defend their country, but the principle of voluntariness is maintained. This allows you to take into account the individual desires and needs of each woman.
