Armenian lawmakers pave way for voluntary military conscription for women

MOSCOW (AA) - The Armenian parliament on Friday approved in the first reading amendments to legislation allowing voluntary military conscription for women.

According to details shared on the parliament's website, 62 lawmakers voted in favor of the changes, while 26 abstained.

If the bill is adopted, women aged 18-27 will be able to apply for military service for a term of six months.

While they may change their mind before reporting, they will not be able to leave after joining.

A special military unit will be created for the new recruits who will be paid 1 million drams ($2,500) after completing the enlistment.

In case of early retirement for health reasons, women will receive a part of the payment proportional to the months of service.

Those who wish to continue beyond six months will be able to apply for the Defender of the Fatherland program, and enter the service for a period of five years, after which they will receive a payment of 5 million drams (some $12,000).

Two-year military service for men aged 18-27 is mandatory in the Caucasus country.