The women living on the frontline around the world and why more female soldiers are fighting than ever before.
There are those in society and the military that believe there is no place for women in combat. It is a polarising view that is at odds with progressive modern militaries yet one that appears to be gathering momentum in some parts of the world, especially in the US. How will this affect the careers of females currently serving in the US armed forces and future recruitment?
Our presenter Victoria Hollingsworth talks with different women around the world, some on the frontline and others about to go, and explores the motivations and the challenges they face. Many have families and find juggling these two lives very hard and with little support. Away from the frontline many have faced sexism and worse from their own colleagues. But with warfare changing, new technologies and new threats, women soldiers are a vital resource.
Aurra’s one-hour documentary for BBC World Service will be broadcast on Saturday 17 May 2025 (12.06 BST) and is now available to listen to on BBC Sounds.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/w3ct7yx5
Photo: Major Jenny Wood is sitting in the back of an army vehicle. Credit: British Army