Pete Hegseth disbands the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services

Department of Defense Shuts Down Advisory Committee for Women

On Tuesday, the War Department revealed that Secretary Pete Hegseth has chosen to disband the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS). This committee, made up of civilians, has historically provided suggestions on issues that impact women in the U.S. military.

In a post, someone remarked that the committee was seen as promoting a divisive feminist agenda, suggesting that it could be detrimental to military readiness. Hegseth, by contrast, advocates for a consistent and unified standard across the department.

The DACOWITS website emphasizes its goal of improving recruitment, retention, integration, and overall treatment of female service members. The committee has played a crucial role in implementing changes to military laws and policies affecting women since its inception in 1951.

Interestingly, even though women represent 17.7% of military personnel, a recent demographic report from the Department of War has urged the Marines to enhance recruitment training with mixed-gender teams and review gender-sensitive standards for body composition. The report also called for an analysis of promotional data over the past decade by gender and race.

Among its numerous recommendations, DACOWITS has suggested implementing timely distribution of aviation safety devices tailored for women, standardizing maternity leave policies, and distinguishing various types of harassment.

While DACOWITS had provided more than 1,100 recommendations since it was established, the War Secretary’s focus seems to be shifting away from this advisory body’s approach, as indicated by past criticisms labeling its agenda as contrary to military objectives.