In the framework of International Women’s day #EachforEqual, HagueTalks will focus on advocating equality and justice for women. Three women: two judges from Jordan and Iraq will share their journey of becoming the very first female judges in their respective countries; one assistant law lecturer will share her work to raise awareness and include women as judges in Egypt.

Across the MENA region women have been making significant progress towards achieving equal rights on different levels. However, progress in a region that faces continuous instability can be challenging. Therefore, different actors and parties are needed to ensure and enhance gender equality.

How do female judges contribute to empowering women? How do they stand up for gender equality in this difficult region? And how do they work to create a more just society in their countries? Join the dialogue as the judges share anecdotes and get inspired as you listen to their stories.

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

• Omnia Taher Gadalla from Egypt is assistant Lecturer at the Faculty of Law and Sharia at Al-Azhar University in Egypt. Gadalla strives to lift the legal ban that prevents women from becoming judges in her country.
• Sewar Alrashdan from Jordan is a judge at Amman Magistrates’ Court and one of the few female judges in her country. Sewar aims to increase the support for female judges as well as women in leadership positions.
• Nigar Ahmed Mohammed from Iraq is one of the first two women to become a judge in Kurdistan region. As one of the few female judges in her city, Nigar still has to overcome prejudices and obstacles that female judges are confronted in Iraq.

Janet Anderson is the moderator of this event. She is experienced media professional, host of a popular podcast on international justice and manager of Justice Hub engaging young people in conversations about peace and justice. Janet is a seasoned HagueTalks contributor from moderating to providing fresh thoughts on the way forwards.

This event is co-organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Municipality of The Hague, RVO and Humanity House.