The International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) congratulates Judge Gabriela Knaul Albuquerque on her election and inauguration as Appellate Judge (Desembargadora) of the Court of Justice of the State of Mato Grosso (TJMT), Brazil.
Her appointment fills a gender-designated seat, created as part of the gender equity policy promoted by Brazil’s National Council of Justice (CNJ) to strengthen women's representation in leadership positions within the judiciary. The policy seeks to correct historic gender imbalances and ensure that courts better reflect the diversity of the society they serve.
Judge Gabriela Knaul Albuquerque brings nearly three decades of judicial experience to the appellate bench. Throughout her career, she has been widely recognized for her commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence, and the protection of fundamental rights. She has also played an important role in international judicial cooperation and previously served as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers (2009–2015).
Her promotion to the appellate court represents both a personal milestone and an institutional achievement for the Brazilian judiciary. It reflects the growing recognition that gender equality within the judiciary strengthens judicial legitimacy, public trust, and the quality of justice.
The IAWJ celebrates this important step and reaffirms its commitment to supporting women judges around the world in advancing independent, inclusive, and accountable justice systems.
Judge Knaul Albuquerque’s appointment stands as a meaningful example of how institutional policies aimed at gender equality can expand opportunities for women in judicial leadership and contribute to more representative and resilient justice systems.