Expanding role of Omani women in the judiciary

Women today actively contribute to numerous sectors, driven by principles of gender equality and their recognised role in sustainable development. Their participation spans intellectual, scientific, civil, and military domains, making their growing presence in legislative, judicial, and executive authorities a natural progression.

Governments and societies have invested significantly in women's education, training, and professional development, enabling them to enter fields previously beyond their reach, including the judiciary and military. Their involvement in these sectors marks a transformative shift, reflecting their increasing role in nation-building and their ability to thrive in new and diverse professions.

Women's integration into the judiciary aligns with broader social objectives, empowering them to contribute actively to national service. Their legal expertise and human insight help uphold justice and reinforce principles of equality, fostering an inclusive court environment that instils public confidence, particularly among women seeking redress.

Beyond elevating their societal standing, women's presence in the judiciary challenges traditional perceptions, enhances their understanding of legal systems, and allows them to shape legislative frameworks that align with national aspirations. This involvement strengthens the foundations of justice, equality, and social security, reinforcing positive citizenship and broadening opportunities across all developmental sectors.

A gender-balanced judiciary facilitates access to justice, particularly in cases involving women, ensuring fair legal representation. Establishing a legal system that upholds gender equality not only enables more inclusive justice but also strengthens legal institutions, enhancing their credibility and effectiveness.

Oman has long championed women's empowerment, integrating them into all sectors through education and training. Legislative and policy frameworks promoting gender equality have expanded women's participation across social, economic, environmental, and technological fields. Omani women have excelled in business, artificial intelligence, space sciences, and energy sectors, achieving recognition at local, regional, and global levels.

Their entry into the judiciary further underscores their capacity to modernise legal processes and introduce diverse judicial perspectives, complementing their male counterparts' contributions. This diversity fosters collaborative decision-making, enhances judicial outcomes, and supports policy development in line with national objectives.

According to the 2024 Omani Women’s Observatory, published by the National Centre for Statistics and Information, the annual growth rate of Omani women in the judiciary between 2020 and 2023 reached 31.2 per cent. By 2023, the total number of Omani women in the judiciary stood at 608, reflecting a 25 per cent increase from the previous year. These figures highlight their expanding role within judicial institutions.

Women in the judiciary are predominantly concentrated in two professions: law and public prosecution, accounting for 92 per cent and 8 per cent of female participation, respectively. In 2023, the number of female lawyers rose by 27 per cent to 562, while female prosecutors increased by 5 per cent to 46. While their overall representation remains modest, the steady annual rise suggests greater future participation and broader opportunities in the judicial sector.

However, the current concentration of Omani women in just two legal professions calls for a review of their career pathways within the judiciary. Their skills and qualifications equip them for diverse roles, and a phased approach to judicial integration should facilitate their entry into higher judicial positions. Given the state's investments in women's education and professional development, they are well-positioned to assume judicial responsibilities alongside their male counterparts.

Women's participation in the judiciary carries significant social and developmental implications. A strategic approach to their empowerment would ensure clear benchmarks for their legal careers and strengthen their representation across various sectors. This aligns with Oman’s broader vision of fostering gender-inclusive policies and leadership roles.

The experiences of other Arab nations offer valuable insights. Jordan appointed its first female judge in 1996, while Bahrain followed in 2006. These examples demonstrate women's capacity to excel in judicial roles, promoting diversity and inspiring greater female participation in legal and legislative fields.

Omani women possess the expertise and potential to match their global counterparts. Their achievements in business and other fields stand as testament to their capabilities. As the world marks International Day of Women Judges on March 10, expanding their representation in the judiciary would reinforce gender equality, promote fair opportunities, and support national policy development.

Oman’s commitment to gender parity has facilitated women's progress across all domains. With continued support and open opportunities, women can further their contributions to sustainable national development. Ensuring their presence in all sectors, including the judiciary, necessitates ongoing review and expansion of their roles, affirming their integral place in shaping the nation’s future.Translated by Badr al Dhafari (The original version of this article was published in Arabic in the print edition of Oman newspaper on March 9)