The Norwegian Nobel Committee has awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize to South African jurist Navanethem “Navi” Pillay for her contributions to international law, the prosecution of war crimes and the promotion of peace and justice.
The committee said Pillay had demonstrated exceptional courage and integrity in advancing a more comprehensive global legal order, particularly through efforts to ensure that war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide are prosecuted.
Born in Durban, South Africa, into a family of Indian Tamil origin during apartheid, Pillay built a distinguished legal career confronting racial discrimination, segregation and exclusion. Her early work included defending Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists before she went on to serve in prominent national and international judicial positions.
Pillay has served as a judge of South Africa’s High Court, the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the International Criminal Court. She also served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Until recently, she chaired the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory. She currently serves as a judge at the International Court of Justice in proceedings in which Myanmar is accused of genocide.
The Nobel Committee highlighted Pillay’s role in landmark international legal cases, particularly those that strengthened accountability for sexual violence and genocide.
At the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, her influence contributed to the recognition that rape and sexual violence could constitute crimes against humanity and acts of genocide. She also played a significant role in a landmark case in which a defendant faced charges of direct and public incitement to commit genocide through propaganda.
According to the committee, Pillay’s work has helped expand the reach of international law while strengthening institutions responsible for holding states and individuals accountable for serious violations.
The committee said her career demonstrated that legal institutions could help prevent violence, promote accountability and provide justice for victims of conflict.
It also used the award to underscore the importance of protecting the rule of law at a time when international judicial institutions and their officials face increasing pressure and sanctions.
“Peace requires justice,” the committee stressed, arguing that national and international legal systems remain essential to resolving conflicts peacefully and maintaining a just international order.
Pillay’s career, it added, reflects the importance of independent judges who defend legal principles even in difficult political circumstances.
The Nobel Committee described her as one of the leading defenders of international legal principles in contemporary times, saying her commitment to justice and human dignity offered hope to those seeking a more peaceful world.
The 2026 award recognises Pillay’s longstanding efforts to strengthen international justice, protect human rights and ensure that those responsible for grave crimes are held accountable.