The rise of sperm freezing before military service

In a recently published article in the journal International Political Sociology, researchers from the Swedish Defence University analyse the growing practice of freezing sperm prior to military service – a phenomenon seen, for example, in Ukraine, Russia, and the United States.

“This is a new development, and we see it partly as an example of how the state’s population policies are shifting focus from women to men", says Arita Holmberg, Associate Professor of Political Science at the Swedish Defence University. She co-authored the article with Aida Alvinius, Professor at the Department of Leadership and Command & Control.

The researchers introduce the concept of reproductive insurance, which captures the issue of exposing oneself to health risks in a military context – with cryopreservation, the freezing of sperm or eggs, presented as a solution. The term already exists in medical research, for instance in relation to cancer patients who freeze reproductive material ahead of treatments that could impair fertility.

Security and demography

“We argue that this practice may signal a shift in the relationship between security and demography – from a focus on women to a focus on men, who make up the majority of military organisations”, says Arita Holmberg.

Population issues often come to the fore in times of war. Historically, the effects of deaths in conflict have posed political and social challenges, with states taking active steps to restore demographic balance in various ways.

“The issue of cryopreservation can also be seen as an example of how individual considerations are gaining importance – where the demand to minimise risk within a military setting becomes relevant. Men's roles as fathers are also being valued differently than before. In Ukraine’s case, questions of national identity, politics, and relations with Europe also play a significant role”, says Arita Holmberg.

A more individualized society

The researchers argue that the security and defence sector as a whole – and military organisations in particular – are facing challenges tied to normative changes taking place across society.

“For many people, safeguarding their future ability to self-actualise, in which the issue of having children plays a central role, is crucial. Our findings show a growing interest in reproductive insurance through cryopreservation”, she says.

Their contacts within the Swedish Armed Forces confirm that this issue is on the rise.

“They have it on their agenda. It’s a matter of recruitment, working conditions, the risks people are exposed to, and the cost of eliminating those risks. Reproductive insurance should, of course, be offered to both women and men”, says Arita Holmberg.