The Case For Commemorating The International Day Of Women Judges : Justice Maria Clete Writes

On March 10th each year, the world acknowledges the International Day of Women Judges (IDWJ)—a day established by the United Nations General Assembly to recognise and promote the role of women in the judiciary. The observance of this day is not merely symbolic; it serves as a reaffirmation of the principles of gender equality, judicial integrity, and inclusivity within the legal profession.

Why IDWJ Matters

Historically, the judiciary has been a male-dominated institution. Although progress has been made, the representation of women in judicial positions, particularly in higher echelons, remains limited. The IDWJ provides an opportunity to reflect on this reality and to advocate for structural changes that foster equal participation.

Judicial diversity is not about token representation; it enriches the justice delivery system by bringing varied perspectives to legal interpretation and decision-making. Empirical studies suggest that diverse judicial benches contribute to well-rounded jurisprudence, increased public confidence, and more equitable outcomes. The IDWJ, therefore, is an occasion not just to celebrate achievements but also to discuss persistent challenges.

The Judiciary's Role in Leading the Change

The highest courts of several nations, including India's Supreme Court, have actively participated in commemorating this day. In 2022, the Supreme Court of India marked the first-ever IDWJ with a special program, setting a precedent for the judiciary across the country. This raises an important question—should not all High Courts and District Courts also take proactive steps in acknowledging and celebrating this day?

The celebration of IDWJ should not be seen as a gender-biased event but rather as an occasion to reinforce the judiciary's commitment to equality. Recognizing the contributions of women judges is not an act of exclusion but one of inclusion. If the judiciary is to uphold constitutional values, it must lead by example in ensuring representation and commemoration of such occasions.

A Curious Silence: A Missed Opportunity?

It has been observed that efforts to commemorate such occasions may benefit from formal acknowledgment. While directives have been issued at the district level, the absence of a similar initiative at the High Court level invites reflection.

There may be various perspectives on how such commemorations should be approached, and some may hold concerns about how they align with broader institutional principles. However, celebrating the contributions of women in the judiciary is consistent with the ideals of inclusion and equality that the institution upholds.

If a decision has been taken to forgo commemoration, understanding the considerations behind it would provide valuable clarity and insight into how such observances are viewed within the judicial framework.

Looking Ahead: The Need for Institutional Endorsement

The IDWJ is not about celebrating an individual or a particular group—it is about recognizing the judiciary's evolving role in shaping a more inclusive legal landscape. Commemoration of such occasions fosters awareness, mentorship, and institutional introspection on how to improve gender representation in the judiciary.

For the judiciary to remain an impartial and progressive institution, it must be willing to engage with contemporary issues, including gender representation. Judicial leadership in commemorating IDWJ sends a strong message: that the legal system values inclusivity and that women in the judiciary are not exceptions, but integral to the administration of justice.

The responsibility does not lie solely with women judges or legal associations—it is the collective responsibility of the entire judicial community to ensure that diversity, equity, and inclusion remain at the forefront of judicial discourse. Institutions must proactively participate, not just in issuing directives, but in taking visible and meaningful action.

Conclusion

The IDWJ is an opportunity—an opportunity to reflect, to acknowledge, and to inspire. It is imperative that judicial institutions, particularly High Courts, recognize the significance of this day and take steps to observe it in a manner that reinforces the judiciary's commitment to equality.

Whether through panel discussions, mentorship programs, or public acknowledgements, the commemoration of IDWJ is an affirmation that the judiciary is not only a defender of rights but also a reflection of the society it serves. Silence or inaction on such occasions may send the wrong message—one that is contrary to the constitutional vision of an inclusive and diverse judiciary.

The celebration of International Day of Women Judges (IDWJ) holds a deeply personal significance for me. It is a testament to collective advocacy, persistent efforts, and solidarity among women judges worldwide.

The question is not whether we should commemorate the IDWJ, but rather, can we afford not to?

Author is Judge, Madras High Court. Views are personal.