Female judges and prosecutors go to human rights institution with equal pay complaints

Two female judges and the emanicpation interest group Bureau Clara Wichmann have filed a complaint against the State with The Netherlands Institute for Human Rights due to unequal pay for female judges and public prosecutors. As far as Marko Jovovic knows, the State did not respond to an ultimatum that expired on Wednesday. He is a lawyer for the attorney's office Stibbe, which is assisting Bureau Clara Wichmann pro bono.

Female judges and prosecutors have been paid less than their male colleagues for decades, the bureau reported. "This difference in reward varies from 3,5 to almost 10 percent, so over a year's salary less."

The difference is said to be due to arbitrariness and because the last wage earned is taken into account. The salary is often lower for women. The two judges and the office want a new remuneration policy and compensation scheme.

Jovovic said that the Netherlands Institute for Human Rights usually treats these types of cases within half a year to a year. If Bureau Clara Wichmann is judged to be right in their complaints, then the State may take action, said the lawyer. "Rulings by the institute are usually followed."

Jovovic added that the minister recognized that the situation was not good. Despite this, no concrete action was taken to rectify it. "It is a straightforward problem, but I get the impression that this is a complex problem to address within the organizational structure of the legal power."

Clearly, the organization has not been able to change, said the attorney. "Going to the institution is a very serious first step. We hope the external pressure and attention ensure action is taken."

If this does not happen, then other action must be taken, including taking the case to court, said the counselor. "Rulings by the court are binding. But it should not have to get to that poi