Should Women Be Allowed on the Frontline?

Should Women Be Allowed on the Frontline?

The debate over whether women should be allowed on the frontline in combat roles has been ongoing for decades. While some, including me, argue against it for various ethical, physical and practical reasons, others advocate for the inclusion of women in all military roles. In this article, I will explore some arguments for women in combat, their contributions on the frontline, the effectiveness of female soldiers, and the involvement of women in the Afghanistan conflict. I will also offer my opinion about this and why I'm against at the end. And remember, opinions are like arseholes, everyone has one and they all stink.

Why Should Women Be Allowed in Combat?

Equality and Opportunity

One of the primary arguments for allowing women on the frontline is the principle of equality. Women have fought long and hard for equal rights and opportunities in various fields, and the military should be no different. Denying women the chance to serve in combat roles solely based on their gender is a form of discrimination. Many women possess the physical and mental fortitude required for frontline combat, and they should be given the opportunity to prove themselves. I mean, if they can pass the physical tests, shouldn't they be given the opportunity to fight?

Diverse Perspectives

Including women in combat roles brings diverse perspectives and skills to the military. Women often approach problems and situations differently than men, which can lead to innovative solutions and strategies. This diversity can enhance the overall effectiveness and adaptability of military units.

Meeting Recruitment Goals

Many countries face challenges in meeting military recruitment goals. By opening combat roles to women, the pool of potential recruits is significantly expanded. This can help military forces maintain adequate troop levels and ensure that all positions are filled with qualified individuals.

How Did Women Help on the Front Line?

Medical Support

Throughout history, women have played crucial roles on the frontline, particularly in medical support. During World War II, for instance, women served as nurses and medics, providing essential care to wounded soldiers. Their contributions were invaluable, often making the difference between life and death for many servicemen.

Intelligence and Communications

Women have also excelled in roles related to intelligence and communications. Their attention to detail and ability to multitask have made them effective in gathering and analysing intelligence, as well as maintaining critical lines of communication during combat operations.

Combat Support Roles

In more recent conflicts, women have served in various combat support roles. They have driven supply trucks, operated heavy machinery, and performed other essential tasks that ensure frontline units are well-supplied and supported.

How Effective Are Female Soldiers?

Performance and Training

Studies and real-world experiences have shown that female soldiers can perform just as effectively as their male counterparts. Rigorous training programmes ensure that all soldiers, regardless of gender, meet the same physical and tactical standards. Women who pass these training programmes demonstrate the strength, endurance, and skill required for combat roles.

Cohesion and Morale

Concerns about unit cohesion and morale have often been cited as reasons to exclude women from combat roles. However, research has shown that mixed-gender units can perform effectively together, and any initial challenges are typically overcome through training and leadership. In fact, the inclusion of women can boost morale by promoting a sense of fairness and inclusivity within the ranks.

Successful Deployments

There are numerous examples of successful deployments involving female soldiers. Women have proven themselves in combat situations, demonstrating bravery, leadership, and competence under fire. Their contributions have been recognised and valued by their peers and superiors alike.

Were Women on the Front Line in Afghanistan?

Combat Roles

Yes, women served on the frontline in Afghanistan. Since the early 2000s, women in various military forces, including the United States, United Kingdom, and other coalition countries, have been deployed to Afghanistan in combat roles. They have participated in a wide range of operations, from direct combat to reconnaissance and intelligence missions.

Cultural and Logistical Challenges

Women serving in Afghanistan faced unique cultural and logistical challenges. The conservative societal norms in Afghanistan often posed difficulties for female soldiers, particularly in interacting with local populations. However, their presence also provided unique advantages, such as the ability to engage with Afghan women and children in ways that male soldiers could not.

Recognition and Valour

Many female soldiers who served in Afghanistan have been recognised for their bravery and contributions. Their service has highlighted the capability and resilience of women in combat roles, challenging outdated perceptions and paving the way for greater inclusion in the future.

My Opinion

The question of whether women should be allowed on the frontline is multifaceted, involving ethical considerations, practical realities, and historical context. Women have already proven their ability to serve effectively in combat roles, contributing significantly to military operations and demonstrating the qualities required for frontline service.

My opinion, in short, is a big no, and I'll offer a few reasons why I have come to this conclusion below.

From an ethical standpoint, Jordan Peterson argues that the differences between men and women should guide our societal roles. Men and women are fundamentally different, not just biologically but also psychologically. Women are more nurturing and less aggressive, traits that are essential for raising the next generation. Putting women on the front lines ignores these inherent differences and places them in situations that go against their natural inclinations.

Practically, there's a stark biological reality: you need fewer men than women to repopulate a country. Historically, societies have sent men to war because, in terms of sheer numbers, losing men doesn't jeopardise the continuation of the population as severely as losing women. If we lose a large number of men, a smaller number can still father many children. However, if we lose a large number of women, it significantly reduces the potential for population recovery.

Moreover, men are generally stronger and more physically capable of handling the extreme demands of combat. This isn't a slight against women's capabilities but a recognition of different strengths and roles. Ensuring that the most physically able individuals are on the front line increases the chances of success and survival.

Ok, imagine yourself in a combat situation, if I get shot, I weigh 95 kilos. With all my battle armour and weapons, that adds another 30 kilos, making a total of 125 kilos. Can a woman, who is wearing the same kit, carry me off the battlefield? She would be possibly carrying a total of around 250 kilos. This isn't just about individual strength; it's about the practical realities of combat and ensuring that every soldier can rely on their teammates in life-and-death situations.

Another concern is that if women are captured as prisoners of war (POWs), they are more likely to be subjected to gang rape and brutality, posing a severe ethical and moral dilemma.

In summary, the ethical and practical considerations support the idea that women should not be on the front lines. It's about recognising and respecting the natural differences and ensuring the survival and stability of our societies.

For a deeper dive into this topic, check out this Jordan Peterson video. Additionally, learn about the toughest male soldier ever known for more context on the demands of combat.

Matt

Urban Athlete