The International Day of Women Judges, observed annually on March 10th, is an occasion to celebrate the invaluable contributions of women to the judiciary. The day recognizes the pivotal role that women have played in promoting access to justice, protecting human rights, and upholding the rule of law.

In Sri Lanka, the legal profession has historically been male-dominated, with women facing significant barriers to entry and advancement. However, in recent years, there has been a gradual increase in the representation of women in the judiciary, with many women now occupying key positions in courts across the country. Through their actions and decisions, these women judges have demonstrated their commitment to fairness, justice, and the protection of fundamental rights.

Sri Lanka has had some outstanding examples of female judges who have made significant contributions to the judiciary. Justice Shiranee Tilakawardane, for instance, was the first female judge appointed to the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka in 1996. She served as a Supreme Court judge for over 15 years and played a pivotal role in promoting gender equality and human rights in the country.

Justice Eva Wanasundara is another prominent female judge in Sri Lanka who has made significant contributions to the legal profession. She served as a judge in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court and was appointed as the first female Attorney General of Sri Lanka in 2007. Her leadership and commitment to justice have paved the way for greater gender representation in the judiciary and have inspired a new generation of women to pursue careers in law.

Celebrating the International Day of Women Judges in Sri Lanka is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to raise awareness about the critical role that women have played in advancing the legal profession and the justice system in Sri Lanka. Secondly, it provides an opportunity to recognize the challenges and obstacles that women continue to face in the legal profession in Sri Lanka, including gender biases, stereotypes, and harassment. Finally, it serves as a reminder of the need to continue advocating for greater gender equality in the legal profession in Sri Lanka, so that the judiciary can better reflect the diversity of the society that it serves.

The contributions of women judges in Sri Lanka have had a transformative impact on the legal system. They have helped to break down the barriers that have prevented women from fully participating in the judiciary and have promoted greater gender representation and diversity. Their leadership has also inspired a new generation of women to pursue careers in law and the judiciary in Sri Lanka.

The International Day of Women Judges is a vital occasion that recognizes the immense contributions of women to the legal profession and the judiciary in Sri Lanka. By celebrating the achievements of women judges in Sri Lanka, we can inspire a new generation of women to pursue careers in law and the judiciary, and promote a more diverse and inclusive legal system that upholds justice and protects human rights.

We must continue to work towards achieving gender equality in the legal profession in Sri Lanka so that the judiciary can reflect the diversity of our society and uphold the values of fairness, justice, and equality.

Written by: Rtr. Sashen Windsor

Graphic design by: Rtr. Akila Srikantha