TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) is evaluating the integration of women into compulsory military service, considering global practices and the specific needs of the nation's armed forces. Media reports on Tuesday (Feb. 25) highlighted a critical personnel shortage in the military, prompting discussions at the Presidential Office about manpower acquisition and structural adjustments.
Still, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) has not issued any directives regarding mandatory service for women, according to the ministry. The MND emphasized that claims are inaccurate. The ministry stated that a comprehensive assessment of the labor market, needs of combat power, training capacity, and available training facilities must precede any decision on the matter.
The military offers numerous opportunities for women to join voluntarily military service, including educational programs like the "regular officer class" (正期班) and the "sergent's two-year vocational college" (士官二專班). Also, other options like volunteer soldiers, "professional reserve sergent and officer classes"(專業預備軍士官班), and "standing flight officer classes"(飛行常備軍官班).
