LONDON: Britain has lifted a ban on women serving in frontline combat roles in the army.
Prime Minister David Cameron announced the decision at a NATO summit in Warsaw.
Cameron says he accepted a recommendation from the head of the army, Gen. Nick Carter, that women should be allowed to serve in ground close-combat roles. He has asked that the decision be implemented “as soon as possible.”
Cameron says “it is vital that our armed forces are world-class and reflect the society we live in.”
Until now, British women have been able to serve as fighter pilots, sailors and submariners, but not in infantry or armored corps units whose primary role is close-quarters combat.
Hannah Bryce from the Royal Institute of International Affairs told media it was a very important decision which will “make the British Army not only more representative of its society, but also more operationally effective.”
She added: “Wars are not just fought by men, and do not just affect men. The battleground has already moved from the remote frontlines of 20th Century warfare to a more urban environment and as a result is influenced by all society and not just military personnel.
“The armed forces need women in all military roles if they are to understand and influence events on the battlefield and beyond, This is not just about fairness, but about winning.”
Countries including the US, Canada, Australia and Israel already allow women in combat roles.
UK lifts ban on women in frontline combat roles
UK lifts ban on women in frontline combat roles
