International Day of Women Judges 2025: History, Significance, and Women Judges in India

The International Day of Women Judges is observed on March 10 every year to recognize the contributions of women in the judiciary. The participation of women in judicial systems is crucial for ensuring fairness, representation, and equality in court rulings. By their presence, women judges enhance the legitimacy of judicial institutions, sending a strong message of inclusivity and justice.

This special day acknowledges the vital role played by female judges worldwide in upholding the principles of justice, democracy, and human rights. It also aims to inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in law and the judiciary.

History of International Day of Women Judges

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared March 10 as the International Day of Women Judges through Resolution 75/274, which was adopted on April 28, 2021. The decision was made to honor the achievements of female judges and recognize their efforts in promoting gender equality in judicial systems.

The initiative gained momentum after a key international conference organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Doha, Qatar, from February 24 to February 27, 2020. During this conference, the Institute for African Women in Law (IAWL) highlighted the need for judiciaries to encourage a culture of respect for women’s rights. Issues such as workplace harassment, bullying, and gender discrimination in the legal profession, particularly against women judges, were also discussed.

Following the resolution’s adoption, the first-ever International Day of Women Judges was observed on March 10, 2022. Since then, this day has been commemorated annually to advocate for greater female representation in the judiciary and to acknowledge their invaluable contributions to the legal system.

Significance of International Day of Women Judges

The participation of women in the judiciary is essential in ensuring diverse perspectives in decision-making processes. For centuries, the legal profession has been male-dominated, with limited opportunities for women. However, with time, female judges have broken barriers and established themselves as leaders in law and justice.

By celebrating this occasion, governments and institutions around the world reaffirm their commitment to:

• Promoting gender equality in judicial institutions.
• Encouraging women’s participation in leadership and decision-making roles.
• Ensuring fair and unbiased legal proceedings by incorporating diverse viewpoints.
• Developing policies that foster women’s empowerment in the legal profession.

In India, the government has emphasized the importance of ensuring equal representation of women in courts, developing national strategies for their inclusion, and providing leadership opportunities for female judges.

Women Judges in India: A Journey Towards Equality

The First Women Judges in India

India’s journey towards gender inclusivity in the judiciary began with the appointment of Anna Chandy, who became the first female judge of a High Court in 1937. She paved the way for women to enter the legal profession, setting an example for future generations.

In 1989, Justice Fathima Beevi made history by becoming the first female judge of the Supreme Court of India. Her appointment was a landmark moment in India’s judicial history, inspiring more women to pursue careers in law and justice.

Current Representation of Women Judges in India

Despite significant progress, women remain underrepresented in India’s judiciary. As per a 2024 report by the Supreme Court Observer:

• As of August 1, 2024, only 14% of sitting High Court judges in India were women.
• There were only two women Chief Justices among all High Courts in India.
• The percentage of women judges in High Courts has seen a slow increase over the years:
  • 11% in 2021 and 2022
  • 13% in June 2023
  • 14% in August 2024
• Out of 754 judges in various High Courts, only 106 were women in August 2024.

This gradual progress highlights the challenges that women still face in breaking into the judiciary at higher levels.

International Day of Women Judges 2025: Summary

Category	Details
Why in News?	The International Day of Women Judges is observed on March 10 every year to honor women in the judiciary and promote gender equality in legal systems.
History	– Declared by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) through Resolution 75/274 on April 28, 2021. – Inspired by discussions at a UNODC conference in Doha (Feb 24-27, 2020) about workplace harassment and gender bias in the judiciary. – First observed on March 10, 2022.
Significance	– Encourages gender diversity in judicial decision-making. – Strengthens legitimacy and fairness in legal institutions. – Promotes policies supporting women’s leadership in the judiciary.
Women Judges in India	– Anna Chandy: First female High Court judge (1937). – Justice Fathima Beevi: First female Supreme Court judge (1989).
Current Representation (2024 Data)	– 14% of sitting High Court judges are women. – Only 2 women Chief Justices across all High Courts. – 106 out of 754 High Court judges are women. – Gradual increase in women’s representation: 2021 & 2022: 11% June 2023: 13% August 2024: 14%
Challenges	– Slow growth in women’s representation in higher judiciary. – Limited opportunities for women in judicial leadership roles. – Gender biases and workplace challenges in the legal profession.