Throughout history, women have played different roles in war. While traditionally, the role of women in war was that of a supportive role such as being nurses, cooks, and morale boosters, the 21st century has seen a shift in the way women are being involved in wars. Females today are actively involved in various aspects of war, ranging from combat roles to supporting roles. Furthermore, this change has provided women with increased opportunities and exposure to some of the most challenging aspects of war. However, at the same time, it has also exposed women to a greater risk of abuse and victimization.
In the past few years, there has been an increasing trend of women being recruited into the military and other armed forces. The United States military is one such organization that has seen a significant increase in the number of women in their active and reserve forces. As of 2020, women account for approximately 16% of all active-duty military personnel in the US. This shift marks a significant change from the traditional role of women in war, which was much less emphasized in combat roles. Currently, women in the military are actively involved in ground combat units, air and missile defense systems, and even naval combat units, among others.
While the inclusion of women in combat roles has proven to be beneficial in various ways, it has also exposed them to greater risks. One of the main risks is sexual harassment and gender-based violence. Women in the military have reported higher rates of sexual abuse compared to their male counterparts. According to the Department of Defense’s Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military, sexual assault rates in the military are increasing, with most of the victims being female enlisted members. The data also shows that the reported cases of sexual assault and harassment have increased from 6% to 8% between 2016 and 2018. This situation is unacceptable and outlines the need for better policies and interventions to ensure that women in the military are protected.
Apart from military roles, women are also actively involved in various humanitarian and peace-building missions. Women are essential in these missions, as they bring a unique perspective to the conflict and have been found to be effective in negotiating peace and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, such as women and children. Women’s role in peace-building processes has been recognized by the United Nations, and more women are getting involved in these processes than before. Various UN agencies, civil society organizations, and even the private sector are working towards empowering women, thereby enabling them to participate more actively in peace-building and humanitarian missions.
In conclusion, women have played various roles in wars throughout history. However, their involvement has traditionally been focused on the supportive roles, limiting their exposure to some of the war’s main challenges. The inclusion of women in combat roles has opened up new opportunities with increased exposure to these challenges; however, it has also brought them more danger. The increasing cases of sexual assault and gender-based violence are an indicator that more needs to be done to ensure the safety of women in war zones. Finally, the involvement of women in peace-building missions has proven to be a game-changer, bringing in new perspectives and skills that are essential in the peaceful resolution of conflicts. In conclusion, it is crucial to continue to promote gender equality in all aspects of our lives, including in challenging environments such as wars and conflicts.
