Navi Pillay wins Nobel Peace Prize for human rights work
The Norwegian Nobel Committee selected Pillay in recognition of her longstanding work on human rights and international law, citing her efforts to promote peace and uphold international legal principles.
The award comes amid continuing international debate over the protection of human rights, accountability for alleged violations and the role of international legal institutions. Some commentators have criticized the committee for not selecting Albanese, who was also nominated for the prize and has drawn international attention for her work on Palestinian rights.
A distinguished career in human rights
Pillay, 85, made history as the first non-white woman to serve as a judge on South Africa’s Supreme Court. She later served as a judge at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and presided over the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda.
From 2008 to 2014, Pillay served as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, working to strengthen human rights protections, international justice and the implementation of international law.
She also headed a UN independent international commission of inquiry on the occupied Palestinian territories. In a report published in September 2025, the commission concluded that Israel had committed genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
International law faces mounting challenges
ICC President Tomoko Akane said the recognition carried particular significance at a time when the international legal order and the rule of law were facing serious challenges.
Her remarks came amid tensions between the ICC and US President Donald Trump’s administration over the court’s work and authority.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez were among the international leaders who congratulated Pillay on the award.
Pillay jokes about sharing prize with Trump
Pillay also drew attention for a humorous remark following the announcement.
As applause continued, she joked: “If you keep clapping a little longer, perhaps I’ll share this prize with Trump.”
Her comment became one of the notable moments surrounding the award, against the backdrop of broader debates over international law, human rights and accountability.
Note: This article is based on the text provided. The Nobel Prize announcement and the details of the 2026 award have not been independently verified.
