International Association of Women Judges

Created in 1991, the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization whose members represent all levels of the judiciary worldwide and share a commitment to equal justice and the rule of law. The IAWJ currently has approximately 5,000 members in 82 countries and areas worldwide. The IAWJ works with its members around the world to: - Pioneer judicial education programs to advance human rights, uproot gender bias from judicial systems, and promote women's access to the courts; - Develop a global network of women judges and create opportunities for judicial exchange through international conferences, trainings,the IAWJ newsletter, website, and online community; - Foster judicial leadership and support judicial independence; and, Collaborate with other organizations on issues of equal access to justice. For more than 25 years, the IAWJ has developed and conducted judicial education programs and worked to enhance the capacity of its members and associations around the world. Presently, the IAWJ is actively engaged in several impactful initiatives. In Botswana, our focus lies in enhancing the proficiency of judges, aligning their practices with international human rights frameworks for Promoting Inclusive Justice. Across the global landscape, we are diligently working to amplify awareness about the pressing issue of Sexortion, transcending boundaries to foster a collective understanding. Furthermore, our commitment to nurturing strong leadership avenues for women in judiciaries across the Global South finds its embodiment in the Women in Leadership in Law (WILIL) initiative. Through these transformative programs, the women judges within the IAWJ are driving tangible change and shaping a brighter future for justice and equity.