Chief Justice Announces Reforms to Enhance Women's Access to Justice

On March 8, 2026, coinciding with International Women's Day, the Chief Justice of Pakistan unveiled a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at improving women's access to the judicial system. This initiative underscores the judiciary's commitment to upholding women's rights and ensuring equitable access to justice.

Key Components of the Reform Agenda

• Establishment of Women Facilitation Centres: Dedicated centers within court complexes across Pakistan will provide one-window support services in a safe environment for women litigants.
• Free Legal Aid and Advisory Services: In collaboration with bar councils, the judiciary plans to institutionalize free legal aid, including the creation of a legal advisory helpline to offer immediate legal advice and referrals to pro bono lawyers.
• Strengthening Mediation and Family Support Services: Enhancements within the court system aim to promote amicable resolutions of family disputes.
• Review of Family Laws: The Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan will undertake a review to enhance the gender responsiveness of existing family laws.
• Development of Gender-Fair Language Framework: A framework will be developed to ensure gender-fair language in judicial proceedings, legal drafting, and institutional communication.
• Expansion of Legal Awareness Initiatives: Efforts will focus on improving legal literacy among women, particularly in rural and marginalized communities, enabling them to better understand and exercise their legal rights.

Judiciary's Commitment to Gender Equality

The Chief Justice emphasized that the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees equality before the law and prohibits discrimination based on gender. He highlighted that these guarantees are binding obligations for all public institutions, particularly the judiciary, as the custodian of the Constitution.

By implementing these reforms, the judiciary aims to create a more inclusive and accessible legal system, ensuring that women's rights are protected and promoted across the nation.