Data-Driven Advocacy is Key to Advancing Women in Law and Leadership

J. Jarpa Dawuni, Ph.D.

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Data-driven advocacy is crucial for developing effective strategies to address the challenges women in law encounter in their pursuit of leadership roles within the legal profession.

~ J. Jarpa Dawuni, Ph.D.

In its third year studying women in law across Africa, the Institute for African Women in Law’s Gender Scorecards offer comprehensive data on women’s representation in the legal field. This year, we have expanded our scope to include women who serve as Ministers of Justice, as well as presidents of bar associations and law societies.

The Institute for African Women in Law (IAWL) reports on Women in Law and Leadership in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Senegal highlight several factors contributing to women’s underrepresentation in legal leadership positions. The Gender Equality in Law Campaign (GELC), launched in 2024, aims to address these challenges and aligns with IAWL’s core vision of enhancing the capacity of women in law through training, advocacy, research, and mentorship. 

The IAWL Gender Scorecards serve as essential advocacy tools for promoting gender equality in leadership roles within the legal profession. They inform current and future initiatives aimed at supporting and advancing women's progression in law. 

• Explore the 2025 Gender Scorecards to learn about your law firm, court, Ministry of Justice, or Bar Association’s standing. 

• Join the Gender Equality in Law Alliance and support our advocacy by advocating for institutional change to promote women in law and leadership!