South African human rights lawyer Navi Pillay, winner of the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, arrives for a press conference in Geneva on June 18, 2025.
Fabrice Cofrini/AFP via Getty Images
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Fabrice Cofrini/AFP via Getty Images
South African human rights lawyer Navi Pillay has won the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts for peace, human rights and international law.
The 85-year-old former UN human rights chief was recognized for her contributions to international justice and her work that inspires hope to those fighting for a more peaceful world.
Pillay played a key role in international justice, serving on the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the International Criminal Court. She also chaired the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry into the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
“At a time when the number of wars and conflicts is increasing and judges and institutions of international law are subject to political attacks, the Nobel Committee wishes to reiterate that the ability to resolve conflicts without force and violence depends on the international rule of law,” the committee said in a press release.
This year’s Nobel Peace Prize attracted 287 nominations, including individuals and organizations. The prize is worth 12 million Swedish crowns, or approximately $1.2 million. The 2026 Prize marks the 125th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize, first awarded in 1901.
This is a breaking story and will be updated.
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