Defense Secretary Ends Controversial Women, Peace and Security Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Tuesday the end of the Defense Department’s Women, Peace and Security (WPS) program, which he called a “Biden initiative” but was initiated during Donald Trump‘s presidency in 2017.

Experts warn that the cessation of the program could have significant implications for women in the military and U.S. military objectives worldwide. Hegseth stated, “This morning, I proudly ENDED the ‘Women, Peace & Security’ program inside the Department of Defense. WPS is yet another woke divisive/social justice/Biden initiative that overburdens our commanders and troops—distracting from our core task: WAR-FIGHTING.”

Hegseth later claimed the initiative was straightforward and security-focused in 2017, but said it had been “RUINED” by former President Joe Biden. Conversely, Marco Rubio, who co-sponsored the original WPS legislation, expressed his pride in its existence. At the International Women of Courage Awards earlier this month, he affirmed the importance of women’s participation in security processes.

The program, launched under Trump, aimed to promote women’s roles in conflict prevention and resolution. Ivanka Trump celebrated its achievements, mentioning that the U.S. became the first country to enact such legislation.

While details on how the program will conclude remain unclear, McInnis, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, labeled Hegseth’s announcement as “bizarre.” “This is huge,” she commented, noting that the end of the WPS program could deter the U.S. from recruiting and retaining a capable military workforce. She insisted that eliminating the WPS toolkit would hinder future military effectiveness.

Hegseth’s stance raised eyebrows, with critics worried about its implications for military engagement with allies. Kyleanne Hunter, a Marine Corps veteran, emphasized that WPS has been crucial in shaping military policy regarding women’s needs in areas from body armor to healthcare.

The Pentagon’s 2023 report highlights an increase in women joining the military, with 17.7% of active-duty troops being women. Hunter noted that the WPS program has facilitated critical policies that support female service members.

As the impact of Hegseth’s decision unfolds, current and prospective female military recruits may reconsider their options. Hunter remarked, “These aren’t woke policies that have harmed anybody. This is recognizing that to get a high caliber of warfighters, we need to ensure they’re supported.” CNN has reached out to the Pentagon and the White House for further comments.