On March 10 each year, the International Day of Women Judges is observed to encourage equal and complete participation of women at all levels of the judiciary. Women’s participation in the judiciary is essential to ensuring that courts accurately reflect their populations, address their concerns, and render appropriate judgments. Just by being present, female judges boost the credibility of the courts and send a clear message that they are open and available to anyone seeking justice. Come along with us as we honor all female judges.
History of the International Day of Women Judges Women continue to be underrepresented in decision-making positions despite their increased participation in public life. In point of fact, women have historically been underrepresented in the court, particularly at positions of authority. Since women have always been regarded as less capable than men, they have not been given equal representation in various areas of life. However, things have changed and will continue to change. At the UNODC Global Judicial Integrity Network’s Second High-Level Meeting in Doha last year, Qatar’s Chief Justice and President Vanessa Ruiz jointly proposed the establishment of an International Day to recognize the achievements of female judges. The drafting negotiations at the United Nations were expertly overseen by Qatar’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Her Excellency Alya Ahmed S. Al-Thani.
Having equal numbers of men and women on the bench improves the judiciary’s capacity to render impartial judgments. Women judges bring a wide range of perspectives and experiences to the bench, boosting public trust in the judiciary’s ability to uphold human rights and the rule of law while accurately representing the society they represent. Women in leadership positions also aid in the fight against corruption by destroying networks of collusion.
It has been a positive step toward the perception that judicial systems are more transparent, incorporating, and paradigmatic of the lives they influence that women judges have been included in settings where they had previously been excluded. By commemorating the day, we will reaffirm our commitment to establishing and successfully implementing relevant national policies and plans for the advancement of women in judicial systems, managerial and leadership institutions, and other levels.
Timeline for International Day of Women Judges: The 12th Century The First Judges These court officials had a lot of experience advising the king on how to settle disputes.
1818: The Demise of Combat Trials In 1818, combat trials eventually lost their appeal for civil cases.
The County Courts Act of 1846 Established County Courts in the United Kingdom to handle civil matters.
1905: India’s First Female Judge Justice Anna Chandy was India’s first female judge, eventually serving as a judge on the High Court. She was one of the first female judges in history.
FAQs for the International Day of Women Judges Who was the first female judge in the world?
India’s Justice Anna Chandy was elected to the bench in 1937 and to the high court in 1959.
Which female judge is most well-known?
President Ronald Reagan appointed Sandra Day O’Connor in 1981.
Which judge is the youngest woman?
When Jasmine Twitty became the youngest judge ever to be appointed or elected in the United States at the age of 25, she made history. HOW TO
OBSERVE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF WOMEN JUDGES Stand up for women’s rights around the world You can use your voice to speak up for women right now. On this day, talk about why you care so much about #GenderEquality on social media and think about how you can help.
Encourage more opportunities for women to demonstrate their support for their rights and increase women’s power. The creation of an internship program exclusively for women is one suggestion for increasing female empowerment.
Advocate for women who aren’t as fortunate. Not everyone has the same access to even the most fundamental rights and necessities. Try to assist women who are being denied their human rights and basic needs by society by looking around you.
Five Interesting Facts About Women in the Judiciary Women made up 40% of the judicial bench in 2017, up from 35% in 2008.
In her famous 1946 “open letter to the ladies of the world,” Eleanor Roosevelt demanded that more women participate in both national and international politics.
In the majority of European nations, women outnumber men as professional judges or magistrates; Despite this, only 25% of court presidents and 41% of judges on national supreme courts are women.
Women have a lower right to property despite owning less than 10% of the land and producing between 50 and 80 percent of the world’s food.
70% of the world’s 1.3 billion poor are women, who suffer from the greatest economic hardship. 40% of the poorest urban households are run by women.
The Global Gender Gap Report 2021 estimates that it will take another 135.6 years to achieve global equality between men and women at current rates, which is why the International Day of Women Judges is important. As a result, increasing gender parity in society can be accomplished by giving women representation in the legal system.
Providing women with fundamental rights It is essential to support both sexes equally in society. Providing women with representation in the legal system means allowing them to contribute to society’s upholding of justice.
No to gender bias Bias can make it difficult for women to advance in their careers or even receive adequate healthcare, whether it is intentional or unintentional. “Actively call out gender bias, discrimination, and stereotyping whenever you see them” should be a resolution for everyone this year.
