Urdu Report Desk
South African judge Navanethem “Navi” Pillay has been awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her contributions to international law, human rights and the promotion of peace.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced Pillay as the laureate on Friday, October 9, praising her lifelong commitment to defending human rights and advancing international justice.
Early Legal Career and Human Rights Advocacy
Pillay defended Nelson Mandela and other activists involved in the struggle against apartheid during the early stages of her legal career. She later served as a judge at international courts, contributing to some of the most significant international legal cases of her time.
According to the Nobel Committee, her efforts to promote peace and international law were central to the decision to honour her. Her career demonstrates the important role legal action can play in protecting human rights, establishing justice and supporting international peace.
Role in UN Investigation into Ga*za
Pillay also headed a United Nations commission of inquiry concerning the occupied Palest*inian territory. In a report issued last year, the commission concluded that Israel had committed gen*ocide in Ga*za. Isr*ael rejected the report, describing it as shameful.
The Nobel Committee highlighted Pillay’s role in holding states and national leaders accountable and providing hope to victims of violence and conflict. It also praised her adherence to strong ethical principles throughout her professional career.
Fifth Nobel Prize Announced This Week
The 2026 Nobel Peace Prize is the fifth Nobel Prize to be announced this week. Laureates in literature, chemistry, physics and medicine had already been announced.
The Peace Prize carries a monetary award of 12 million Swedish kronor, equivalent to approximately $1.2 million. The award ceremony will take place in Oslo, Norway, on December 10.
Shehbaz Sharif Highlights Trump’s Peace Efforts
Following the announcement, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised US President Donald Trump’s efforts to facilitate a ceasefire between Pakistan and India in May 2025.
In a message posted on social media platform X, Sharif recalled that Pakistan had nominated Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. He expressed hope that the US president’s efforts to promote peace in South Asia would also receive recognition.
Trump Misses Nobel Peace Prize Again
Trump has expressed his desire to win the Nobel Peace Prize over the past two years. However, as in the previous year, he was not selected for the 2026 award.
Pakistan, along with several other countries, had backed Trump’s nomination for the prestigious peace honour.
In 2025, the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado.
