A webinar presented by the IBA Professional Wellbeing Commission and supported by the IBA Judges' Forum, the IBA Bar Issues Commission, the IBA Rule of Law Forum, and the IBA Legal Policy and Research Unit
In March this year, the UN declared the 25 July as the International Day for Judicial Wellbeing – chosen as the date when the Nauru Declaration on judicial wellbeing was adopted at a landmark conference in 2024. The Resolution to the General Assembly was co-sponsored by more than 70 countries and ultimately 160 member states voted in favour of it.
The webinar explores the critical link between judicial integrity, personal resilience, and the strength of the rule of law. Featuring Justice Rangajeeva Wimalasena – President of the Court of Appeal in Nauru, architect of the Nauru Declaration and driving force behind the UN’s recognition of 25 July as the official day of observance – the session brings together global perspectives on why judicial wellbeing matters.
Panellists include Dr Carly Schrever, an Australian expert on judicial stress and resilience; Associate Justice MJ Ierodiaconou of the Supreme Court of Victoria, known for her leadership in judicial education; and Judge José Matos, President of the Court of Appeal in Porto, Vice-President of the Consultative Council of European Judges and Honorary President of the International Association of Judges. Steven Richman, founding Co-Chair of the IBA Professional Wellbeing Commission and Chair of the IBA Bar Issues Commission Policy Committee, will give the opening remarks.
Together, they will share insights, research, and lived experience to inspire a culture of care within the judiciary, reinforcing that the foundation of justice begins with those who deliver it. In addition, we will hear what the IBA’s Professional Wellbeing Commission is hoping to do in this regard in furtherance of this important agenda.