On September 23, 2025, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disbanded the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services, established in 1951 to guide policies on women’s recruitment, retention, and well-being in the military.
Hegseth argued the committee pushed a “divisive feminist agenda” that undermined combat readiness.
Historical Role
The committee, one of the Pentagon’s oldest advisory groups, made over 1,100 recommendations, with 94% adopted fully or partially.
These shaped laws and policies enhancing women’s roles in the military, from integration to treatment.
Hegseth’s Rationale
A Pentagon spokesperson stated Hegseth prioritized “sex-neutral standards” across the Department of Defense, claiming the committee’s focus hindered military effectiveness.
The decision aligns with Hegseth’s broader push against diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Wider Policy Shifts
Since taking office, Hegseth has eliminated programs like a Trump-era initiative to boost women’s roles in national security.
He also halted identity-based commemorations, such as Black History Month, and removed certain books, including Maya Angelou’s memoir, from the Naval Academy.
Media Restrictions
On September 19, the Pentagon introduced rules limiting media access, requiring news outlets to avoid publishing unapproved information, sparking free speech concerns among U.S. media groups.
Political Context
Hegseth’s actions reflect the Trump administration’s focus on reshaping military priorities, emphasizing readiness and uniformity over diversity-focused policies, amid broader critiques of global institutions.
