Nobel Peace Prize For Navi Pillay Recognises That Human Rights, Justice & Accountability Are Fundamental To Everything

10 Oct 2026, 06:03 by United Nations Human Rights Commissioner · SCOOP

9th October, 2026

This is a proud moment for the global human rights movement. I warmly congratulate Navi. To say it is well-deserved is an understatement.

At a time when human rights are under attack on so many fronts, including from those who wield enormous power, this award is particularly poignant. It is an award to all those who, around the world, dedicate their lives to the defence of human rights – often at great risk to their security,

This award to Navi Pillay is a recognition, a reaffirmation that human rights, the rule of law and justice and accountability are fundamental to everything - to peace, security and prosperity.

She embodies international law – having served in many functions, both in South Africa and internationally as judge of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, the International Criminal Court, and the now International Court of Justice.

On behalf of all her colleagues at the UN Human Rights Office, thank you Navi. You continue to inspire us and millions of others. We will prevail.

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