A joint meeting of the judicial Women's Rights and Freedom of Expression Practice Groups, both initiated by the USAID Rule of Law Program, took place in Tbilisi. The meeting was convened to address the impact of gender stereotypes on judicial proceedings and develop measures to combat sexist expressions during court proceedings.

The meeting began with USAID Rule of Law Program Deputy Chief of Party Neil Weinstein highlighting the importance of recognizing and eradicating gender stereotypes to ensure equality for women in the courtroom and improve their access to justice.

Throughout the session, the 12 participant judges engaged in discussions about the nature of gender stereotypes, their identification, and relevant international standards. Human rights expert Kate Levin from the UK-based European Human Rights Advocacy Center (EHRAC) emphasized that gender stereotyping not only leads to discrimination against women but is discriminatory in itself. Ms. Levin cited pertinent decisions from the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) to support her stance.

The discussions extended to analyzing gender stereotypes within the framework of the Law on the Prohibition of Discrimination, with experts examining the practices of the European Court of Human Rights. They highlighted distinct features characterizing the Court's reasoning on gender stereotypes, setting it apart from other cases of discrimination.

Female judges at the meeting shared personal experiences of facing differential treatment due to gender stereotypes. They also discussed the methods they employ to maintain order in the courtroom and protect women's rights without appearing biased to the opposing side.

A crucial aspect of the meeting focused on addressing sexist expressions, particularly as it relates to lawyers' freedom of expression. Participants deliberated on proportional measures and mechanisms to combat such expressions, stressing the role of lawyers' ethics in eliminating this problem.

Ultimately, all participants agreed on the importance of continuing these discussions with other stakeholders, including lawyers and representatives from civil society organizations, to collectively address and combat gender stereotypes and sexist expressions during court proceedings. The meeting concluded with a commitment to promoting gender equality and safeguarding women's rights within the justice system.