South African-born jurist Navi Pillay has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her contribution to promoting peace, international law and accountability for serious human rights violations. Image: Supplied.
South Africa
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South Africa
Navi Pillay wins 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, Ramaphosa congratulates veteran jurist
South African-born jurist Navi Pillay has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote peace and international law, with President Cyril Ramaphosa praising her lifelong commitment to justice and human rights.
South African-born jurist Navi Pillay has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her contribution to promoting peace, international law and accountability for serious human rights violations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated Pillay on behalf of the nation, describing the recognition as a tribute to her courage, integrity and lifelong commitment to justice.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee honoured Pillay for her role in strengthening international law and ensuring that war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide are prosecuted.
Pillay, whose full name is Navanethem Pillay, currently serves as an ad hoc judge at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). She has distinguished herself in the genocide case brought by The Gambia against Myanmar.
She previously served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, following a distinguished career in international justice.
Between 1999 and 2003, Pillay served as a judge and president of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. She later served as a judge in the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court from 2003 to 2008.
Before her international judicial career, Pillay was a pioneering defence attorney who represented anti-apartheid activists and leaders, including former president Nelson Mandela.
Ramaphosa said the award recognised Pillay's progressive contribution to strengthening peace, upholding human dignity and inspiring people in South Africa and around the world.
“She has served humanity with principle and the belief that the world can and should be a better place,” the President said.
He added that Pillay's achievement highlighted the contribution South Africans had made to peace, justice and the advancement of humanity.
Pillay joins fellow South African Nobel Peace Prize laureates Chief Albert Luthuli, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nelson Mandela and former president FW de Klerk.
Ramaphosa wished Pillay well as she continues her work to protect the rights and dignity of people worldwide.
