MEET THE NEW ELECTION COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Today, we take a moment to look back at the remarkable women who were honored with the Justitia Award in 2025 and to celebrate their continued impact as they now join our Election Committee. Each of them has demonstrated outstanding leadership, courage, and dedication to justice, equality, and the rule of law. Their diverse expertise and global perspectives will undoubtedly enrich the committee’s work in the year ahead.

Brankica Janković
As Commissioner for the Protection of Equality in Serbia, Brankica Janković has spent over a decade at the forefront of advancing human rights, inclusion, and social justice. Her work spans national reforms and international cooperation, addressing issues from gender-based violence to social policy and EU integration. Combining academic rigor with hands-on policy experience, she is a powerful advocate for marginalized communities and a driving force for systemic change.

Renate Winter
A pioneer in juvenile justice and international law, Renate Winter brings decades of judicial experience to the committee. From her work with the UN in Kosovo to her leadership at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, she has shaped global standards in child protection and human rights. Her lifelong commitment to justice, particularly for vulnerable populations, continues to influence legal systems worldwide.

Beate Meinl-Reisinger
As Austria’s Federal Minister for European and International Affairs, Beate Meinl-Reisinger is a leading voice for liberal reform and European integration. Her career reflects a strong commitment to democratic values, transparency, and forward-looking policy. With deep expertise in both law and politics, she contributes a strategic and international perspective to the committee.

Michaela Windisch-Graetz
One of Austria’s foremost legal scholars, Michaela Windisch-Graetz has made significant contributions to labor, social, and European economic law. Her academic career is complemented by practical judicial experience and a strong commitment to gender equality in academia. Through her research and teaching, she continues to shape legal thought and inspire future generations.

Daniela Grabovac
A leading expert in anti-discrimination and the prevention of extremism, Daniela Grabovac has dedicated her career to protecting fundamental rights and promoting equality. As head of key institutions in Styria, she combines legal expertise with public advocacy, education, and international consulting, making her a central figure in combating discrimination and strengthening democratic resilience.

Marie-Thérèse Claes
With over 40 years of experience in academia, Marie-Thérèse Claes is a pioneer in intercultural competence and gender diversity in management. Her work has shaped global conversations on inclusive leadership, bridging research and practice across continents. She brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective that highlights the importance of diversity beyond the legal field.

Lucía Berro Pizzarossa
A globally recognized scholar and advocate, Lucía Berro Pizzarossa works at the intersection of law, activism, and reproductive justice. Her research and advocacy focus on advancing bodily autonomy and amplifying marginalized voices, particularly in the Global South. By connecting legal frameworks with lived realities, she redefines how justice is understood and pursued.

Ana Carolina Caputo Bastos
Ana Carolina Caputo Bastos is a driving force for gender equality in Brazil’s legal profession. As co-founder of a feminist lawyers’ association, she has created platforms for women’s voices and led impactful legal advocacy on issues ranging from parental rights to political representation. Her work exemplifies the power of collective action in achieving systemic change.

Tsion Demissie Bergano
An influential human rights lawyer from Ethiopia, Tsion Demissie Bergano has dedicated her career to legal reform and access to justice. Her work spans litigation, policy development, and education, with a strong focus on protecting vulnerable communities. She combines technical expertise with deep commitment to human dignity and equality.

Together, these extraordinary women embody the values of the Justitia Award and continue to lead by example. As members of the Election Committee, they bring not only their achievements but also their vision for a more just, inclusive, and equitable future.