The Judges’ Society of Nepal, in collaboration with UNDP and ICJ, hosted the “2nd Women Judges Conference 2025” on March 10, 2025, in Lalitpur, Nepal, to commemorate the International Day of Women Judges. This landmark event recognized the contributions of Nepali women judges and honored their dedication to advancing equal access to justice for all. It also served as a platform for women judges to exchange experiences, discuss professional challenges, and explore solutions to address their concerns.
A memorable group photo from the event
The conference opened with a heartfelt tribute to Nepal’s first woman judge, Honorable Justice Sharada Shrestha. The event was inaugurated by Rt. Honorable Chief Justice of Nepal Prakashman Singh Raut, who emphasized the vital role of women judges in Nepal’s judiciary, calling them the pride of the judicial system. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting women judges and stressed the importance of impartiality and transparency in earning judicial respect. He also highlighted ongoing judicial reforms aimed at strengthening inclusivity.
Rt. Honorable Chief Justice of Nepal Prakashman Singh Raut addressing the audience
Former Rt. Honorable Chief Justice Kalyan Shrestha delivered a keynote speech on the “8 March Principles and Access to Justice.” Justice Shrestha addressed issues related to over-criminalization, its negative impacts, and human rights considerations in criminal law. He emphasized that sentencing should be a last resort, advocating for alternative forms of punishment. He also discussed contemporary legal issues, including reproductive rights, consensual sexual conduct, transgender rights, and drug laws, underscoring the need to view these matters through a human rights lens.
Former Rt. Honorable Chief Justice Kalyan Shrestha delivering the keynote speech
Supreme Court Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla spoke on “Inclusiveness and Representation of Women Judges in the Judiciary: Opportunities and Challenges.” Justice Malla emphasized that legal recognition of diversity is fundamental to inclusion. She highlighted constitutional and international principles that enshrine inclusivity and protect diverse identities. Drawing from Supreme Court cases and her own experiences, she argued that while the presence of women judges is increasing, challenges remain. She stressed the importance of equitable justice and the need for systemic reforms to ensure meaningful representation in the judiciary.
Supreme Court Justice Sapana Pradhan Malla sharing her insights during the session
The event honored former Rt. Honorable Chief Justice Shushila Karki as Nepal’s first woman Chief Justice. In her remarks, she expressed gratitude and highlighted the increasing presence of women in the judiciary. She emphasized that ability, courage, and dedication are essential for female judges and encouraged them to be strong and confident in delivering justice.
Former Rt. Honorable Chief Justice Shushila Karki receiving the honor
The conference concluded with a 12-point pledge letter, focusing on creating a supportive work environment for women judges and court staff. The letter emphasized gender sensitivity in the workplace, measures to prevent sexual harassment, and the establishment of childcare and lactation facilities. It also called for policy revisions and the formation of women’s committees at all government levels to support professional development.
Approximately 90 participants, including former chief justices, judges, and sitting women judges from the Supreme Court, High Courts, and District Courts, attended the event. Special guests included the Norwegian Ambassador to Nepal, H.E. Ms. Torun Dramdal, UNDP Nepal Resident Representative Ms. Kyoko Yokosuka, and Supreme Court Justice Til Prasad Shrestha, among others, who shared their best wishes for the program’s success.
A moment to remember: Group photo of the participants