Women in warfare and the military (1945–1999)

Following World War II, the role of women in warfare and the military experienced a period of both continuity and significant transformation. While women had served in various support roles during the war, the immediate post-war era saw a contraction of their numbers in some countries, particularly in combat positions which were largely closed to them. However, the evolving nature of conflict, coupled with changing social attitudes, gradually opened new opportunities.

The Cold War necessitated large standing armies, and women continued to serve in nursing, communications, logistics, and administrative roles, becoming increasingly integrated into these established sectors. Certain countries, like the Soviet Union and Israel, maintained policies that allowed women to serve in a wider range of combat-adjacent roles, though direct combat remained relatively limited.

The feminist movement of the 1960s and 1970s significantly impacted the debate regarding women's roles in the military. Arguments centered on equal opportunity, challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for the dismantling of discriminatory barriers. This led to incremental changes in military policies in many Western nations.

The 1980s and 1990s witnessed further expansion of women's roles. While outright combat exclusion policies persisted in most Western militaries, women were increasingly assigned to roles closer to the front lines, such as piloting non-combat aircraft, serving on naval vessels, and participating in military police functions. The Persian Gulf War in 1991, in particular, highlighted the contributions of women in a modern, technologically advanced military.

Throughout this period, debates continued regarding the physical and psychological demands of combat, the potential impact on unit cohesion, and the long-term effects of women serving in combat roles. These discussions often involved considerations of physical strength requirements, concerns about sexual harassment and assault, and differing opinions on the compatibility of motherhood and military service.

By the end of the 20th century, while significant progress had been made in integrating women into the military, many barriers remained, and the question of women in combat roles continued to be a subject of ongoing debate and policy reform across the globe. The precise scope of permissible roles for women varied widely depending on the specific country and its military culture.