Gabriela Knaul on Judicial Independence

In this interview, Gabriela Knaul, Brazilian appellate judge and former United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges and Lawyers, reflects on nearly three decades of judicial service dedicated to defending judicial independence and expanding access to justice. Drawing on her national and international experience, she discusses the challenges facing justice systems across Latin America and the Caribbean, where inequality, gender discrimination, and institutional fragility continue to limit meaningful access to justice. Judge Knaul highlights the vital role women judges play in safeguarding fundamental rights and strengthening public trust in courts. Her reflections underscore a central message: when women lead both on and beyond the bench, justice systems become more inclusive, resilient, and better equipped to protect democracy.