By Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on Tuesday the disbandment of a longstanding advisory committee dedicated to improving the treatment and well-being of women in the military. The Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services, established in 1951, has historically provided critical recommendations regarding various aspects affecting female service members.
According to a Pentagon spokesperson, the termination of the committee was justified on the grounds that it was aligned with a “divisive feminist agenda” that the Secretary claims jeopardizes combat readiness. Hegseth emphasized his commitment to advancing uniform, gender-neutral standards across the Department of Defense.
This committee was one of the oldest advisory bodies within the U.S. military, having submitted more than 1,100 recommendations, with approximately 94% of these either fully or partially implemented. Its contributions have historically played a vital role in shaping policies and legislation impacting military women.
Hegseth’s recent actions align with his broader approach since assuming office, which has included a reevaluation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the Pentagon. For instance, he previously revoked a program aimed at amplifying the involvement of women in national security roles, a program originally decreed by former President Donald Trump in 2017.
Moreover, under Hegseth’s leadership, the Pentagon has ceased recognizing specific identity months, such as Black History Month, and has seen the removal of certain books from the Naval Academy’s curriculum, including Maya Angelou’s memoir.
These developments coincide with growing concerns within U.S. media regarding free speech, particularly in light of the Pentagon’s recent announcement that imposes restrictions on media coverage of military operations. News organizations are now required to agree not to disseminate information that has not been officially cleared for release.
(Reporting by Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
