Gender equality in the legal profession: Grand Chamber Supreme Court Judge Nadiia Stefaniv joins expert discussion

Judge of the Grand Chamber of the Supreme Court Nadiia Stefaniv took part in the event “JurFem Open Space: Being an Advocate for Your Own Well-being: Well-being in the Lives of Women Lawyers”, where she joined the panel discussion “Expert Discussion of Research Findings and Mechanisms for Addressing Identified Gender-Discriminatory Practices”.

Participants were presented with the findings of the study “The Position of Women in the Legal Profession in Ukraine”, conducted by the Ukrainian Women Lawyers Association JurFem in cooperation with the research centre Sociable. The study aims to identify gender-discriminatory practices, policies, and mechanisms affecting women lawyers in the profession.  Recommendations and practical tools for overcoming such discriminatory practices were also presented.

Nadiia Stefaniv emphasised that the findings of the study are highly relevant, particularly in the context of the full-scale war. In her view, women in the legal profession today often face additional challenges as they balance professional responsibilities, family obligations, and work under constant psychological pressure.

The judge noted that manifestations of gender discrimination are not always obvious, but may arise, among other things, during recruitment and selection procedures. According to her, women are frequently asked questions about balancing their professional careers with family life, whereas men are not always subjected to the same approach. Overcoming such stereotypes, she stressed, is an important prerequisite for ensuring equal opportunities within the legal profession.

Speaking about protection against discrimination, Nadiia Stefaniv pointed out that Ukrainian legislation provides for the possibility of bringing cases concerning discrimination and workplace bullying (mobbing) before the courts. She also observed that the length of judicial proceedings often influences a person's decision on whether to seek legal protection of their rights. For this reason, she believes that alongside legal remedies it is important to develop practical support mechanisms for those facing discrimination.

Nadiia Stefaniv also drew attention to the issue of responding to cases of gender discrimination within the judicial system. She underscored the importance of professional ethics, mutual respect, and support within workplaces, and expressed her conviction that the legal community should work towards establishing effective mechanisms of assistance.

“We should already be thinking collectively about how to support women lawyers who face gender discrimination and develop a clear roadmap for such support,” Nadiia Stefaniv stated.

The event was organised by the Ukrainian Women Lawyers Association JurFem.

Photo courtesy of the organisers.