Owing to the lack of representation of women in the Judiciary, women judges are the need of the hour. The International Day of Women Judges is a global observance held yearly on the 10th of March. Additionally, it recognizes the noteworthy contributions of women judges around the world and promotes the importance of gender equality within the judiciary system. Hence, the day aims to inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in law and aspire to become judges. Read on to learn more about the history, theme, significance, and why this day is celebrated!
Name of the day | International Day of Women Judges |
Observed on | 10 March |
Reason | To raise awareness about the crucial role of women judges in dispensing justice To promote gender equality |
Key Years in the History of International Day of Women Judges
In addition, here are the key years in the history of this day:
Year | Event |
2021 | The United Nations General Assembly adopts a Resolution establishing March 10th as the International Day of Women Judges. |
2022 | The first-ever International Day of Women Judges is celebrated. |
2023 | The theme is “Women in Justice, Women for Justice.” |
Also Read: International Men’s Day: Theme, History, Objective, and Activities
History of International Day of Women Judges
Historically, there has been an underrepresentation of women in judicial roles. However, the notion of gender equality in the judiciary has been gaining momentum in the past couple of years.
- The first International Day of Women Judges was celebrated on 10 March 2022.
- It was held according to the recent United Nations General Assembly Resolution 75/274 of 2021.
- It marked a momentous milestone in realizing the difference in representation and encouraging change.
Also Read: International Day of Women and Girls in Science: History, Significance and Importance
Why is International Day of Women Judges Celebrated?
- To Recognize Women’s Contributions: The day celebrates the triumphs of women judges all across the world. Moreover, their dedication to upholding the Rule of Law and guaranteeing equal justice for all.
- To Promote Gender Equality: It is a way to boost gender equality within the judiciary by encouraging countries around the world to implement plans that increase the representation of women in all levels of judicial systems.
- To Inspire Future Generations: In addition, it aims to inspire young women and girls to consider careers in law and the judiciary by emphasizing the achievements of women judges.
What is the Theme of International Day of Women Judges 2024?
The official theme for International Day of Women Judges 2024 has not yet been announced. We will update it here once it has been made public by the official sources. Nevertheless, the first year it did not have a theme. However, in 2023, the theme was “Women in Justice, Women for Justice.
Also Read: Women’s Equality Day 2023: History, Theme, Significance
The Dearth of Women Judges in India
As the Supreme Court of India celebrates the International Day of Women Judges, it is a known fact that India is not even close to 50% women in our Judiciary. According to the Supreme Court Observer, only 107 out of 788 Sitting High Court Judges are Women, which is just 13.58%.
What is the Significance of International Day of Women Judges?
Furthermore, the significance of International Day of Women Judges is as follows:
- Strengthens Rule of Law: With an increase in diversity within the judiciary, there will be an inclusion of greater representation of women. Hence, leading to a more powerful and inclusive legal system.
- Improves Decision-Making: Women judges bring to the table, different perspectives and experiences. Thus, it leads to more well-rounded and informed legal decisions.
- Facilitates Public Trust: A judiciary that actually mirrors the diversity of the population promotes greater public trust and belief in the justice system.
Also Read: International Women’s Day 2024: History & Significance
5 Quotes by Famous Women Judges
If you want to take your celebrations to social media platforms, here are 5 quotes by famous women judges for your captions:
We, the women judges of India, have not reached these positions through reservations or quotas. We are here because of our merit and hard work.
Ruchira Banerjee (First woman Chief Justice of India)
Environmental protection is not a luxury; it is a necessity for a sustainable future.
-Seema Ali Lambat (Judge of the Bombay High Court)
Unless women themselves come out and fight for their rights, no amount of legislation or social change can really empower them.
-Indira Banerjee (Former judge of the Supreme Court of India)
Women belong in all places where decisions are being made. It shouldn’t be that women are the exception.
-Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Second woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court)
There are many ways to be a judge. There are many ways to be fair.
-Stella Chang (First Asian-American woman appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit)
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FAQs
The first woman judge of a court in the world is believed to be Justice Anna Chandy from India. She was appointed as a judge in 1937.
The first-ever International Day of Women Judges was held on March 10, 2022. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly the prior year.
The theme of International Day of Women Judges 2023 was “Women in Justice, Women for Justice.”
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