The Art of Waiting Humbly: Women Judges Reflect on Vertical Gender Segregation

Abstract Central and Eastern European countries (CEE), compared to common law but also other civil of Europe, are known for a strikingly high representation women within judiciaries. This, however, does not mean that equality has been achieved, as judges do reach leadership positions at the same rate their male peers. Taking Czech Republic case study, this contribution explores barriers face CEE judiciary analyses reflections on positions. The interviews with show while they well aware what is holding them back, most perceive structurally unequal position men in society problem accept consequences being part women’s destiny. This means system currently lacks bottom-up incentives pressure change.