The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced that Navi Pillay, an 85‑year‑old South African judge at the International Court of Justice, has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. Pillay, who previously served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, was recognised for demonstrating how legal mechanisms can prevent war and violence.
In its statement, the committee praised Pillay’s long‑standing commitment to universal legal principles and her moral compass. It highlighted her early work defending Nelson Mandela during apartheid, her service on the International Criminal Tribunal, and her role as chair of the UN independent commission of inquiry into the occupied Palestinian territory, which concluded that Israel had committed genocide in Gaza.
The commission’s findings, released in September last year, alleged that Israel’s actions were aimed at destroying Palestinians in Gaza and that Israeli leaders had incited genocide. Israel refused to cooperate with the inquiry and dismissed the report as “scandalous.”
Following the announcement, the Israeli foreign ministry condemned the award, accusing Pillay of spreading lies and anti‑Israel hatred. In the same week, the United States, under the Trump administration, imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court, citing concerns that the court might prosecute Americans.
South Africa welcomed the prize. President Cyril Ramaphosa said Pillay’s recognition “strengthens peace, upholds human dignity and brings hope.” Human‑rights activists, including Yasmin Sooka, praised her legacy, while Pillay herself joked that she could share the medal with Donald Trump if the applause increased.
