Navi Pillay, former UN human rights chief, wins Nobel Peace Prize
Navi Pillay, a former UN human rights chief and South African judge, has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. She was recognized for her long-standing commitment to international law and human rights advocacy.
Why it matters
The Nobel Peace Prize is a globally significant award that highlights the importance of international legal frameworks in resolving modern conflicts.
Image source, AFP via Getty Images Image caption, Pillay was told of the award in Nuremberg's Palace of Justice
Former UN human rights chief and International Court of Justice judge Navi Pillay has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize.
The South African judge was recognised "for her efforts to promote peace and international law" which paved the way for a "more comprehensive global legal order", the Nobel committee said.
Pillay, 85, has taken part in high-profile work considering allegations of human rights violations during a decades-long career, including in Rwanda, Myanmar and Gaza.
Her early work included defending anti-apartheid activists in South Africa, and on Friday she became the country's fifth Peace Prize winner - following in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Figure caption, Watch: Moment Navi Pillay named Nobel Peace Prize winner
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