Pentagon Disbands Decades-Old Women’s Advisory Panel, Cites “Divisive Agenda”

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has terminated a key military advisory committee. The panel focused on issues affecting women serving in the armed forces. The decision was announced on Tuesday, September 23.

A Pentagon spokesperson stated the committee was shut down for pursuing a “divisive feminist agenda.” They said this agenda could hurt military combat readiness. This move is part of a broader shift in the department’s priorities.

Historical Role and Sudden Termination of DACOWITS

The Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services, or DACOWITS, was created in 1951. It provided expert advice on the treatment and integration of women in the military. According to its website, the committee submitted over 1,100 recommendations.

An impressive 94% of those suggestions were fully or partially adopted. These recommendations led to significant changes in laws and policies. The committee’s work was considered instrumental for decades.

The panel’s termination marks a sharp change in direction. Secretary Hegseth’s team emphasized a new focus on “sex-neutral standards.” They believe this approach is better for overall military effectiveness. The news was first reported by Reuters.

Broader Shift in Pentagon Policy Under New Leadership

This is not the first diversity-related program canceled by Hegseth. He previously ended an initiative designed to increase women’s roles in national security. That program was originally signed into law by former President Donald Trump.

The Pentagon has also stopped official commemorations for identity months. This includes events like Black History Month. Additionally, some books have been removed from military academy reading lists.

These actions coincide with new media restrictions announced by the Pentagon. News organizations must now agree not to disclose unapproved information. This has raised concerns about free speech among major media outlets.

The dissolution of the DACOWITS panel signals a fundamental policy shift at the highest levels of the U.S. military. This move ends a 74-year tradition of specialized advocacy for servicewomen. The long-term impact on recruitment and retention of women in the armed forces remains a critical question for the future.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What was the purpose of the DACOWITS committee?

The committee advised the Pentagon on issues related to women in the military. It focused on recruitment, retention, well-being, and treatment. Its goal was to help integrate women effectively into the armed forces.

Q2: Why was the women’s military panel disbanded?

Defense Secretary Hegseth stated the panel promoted a “divisive feminist agenda.” The Pentagon now prefers a focus on “sex-neutral standards.” They believe this new approach better supports combat readiness.

Q3: How long had the advisory committee been operating?

The committee was established in 1951. It had been providing recommendations for 74 years. It was one of the oldest advisory panels within the U.S. military.

Q4: What was the success rate of the panel’s recommendations?

The committee’s website reported a very high adoption rate. Approximately 94% of its over 1,100 suggestions were either fully or partially implemented by the Pentagon.

Q5: Has the Pentagon taken similar recent actions?

Yes. Secretary Hegseth has canceled other diversity programs. This includes ending identity month celebrations and a specific program for women in national security roles.