Pakistan’s First Female Supreme Court Judge Recognised in Vienna
Supreme Court Judge Justice Ayesha A Malik has received the International Leader/Lifetime Award at the Justitia Awards 2026 Gala in Vienna, Austria.
The prestigious award recognised her contributions to law, justice, equality and women’s rights.
According to the Supreme Court, the honour acknowledged her efforts in strengthening legal development, promoting human rights and encouraging greater participation of women in judicial institutions.
Justice Malik Highlights Women’s Role in Legal System
During her visit to Vienna, Justice Ayesha Malik also attended the Women in Law Conference 2026.
She addressed a session titled “Roadmap to Equality and Women’s Rights in Practice,” where she discussed her journey in the legal profession.
Justice Malik spoke about her appointment to the Lahore High Court in 2012 and her historic elevation as the first woman judge of Pakistan’s Supreme Court in 2022.
She highlighted the challenges and opportunities faced by women serving in judicial roles.
Focus on Gender Equality in Legal Decisions
Justice Malik stressed the importance of including a gender perspective in legal reasoning and judicial practices.
She said equality should go beyond legal protections and consider the real-life experiences of women within society.
The judge emphasised that courts and legal institutions must understand women’s challenges and respond effectively through fair legal principles.
She also referred to her judicial work related to dignity, equality and women’s treatment within the justice system.
The award ceremony was attended by judges, lawyers and legal professionals from various countries.
