The Socialist International congratulates Navi Pillay
9 October 2026
The Socialist International warmly congratulates Navanethem “Navi” Pillay on being awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts to promote peace and international law.
Born in Durban in 1941, she became the first woman to open a law practice in Natal, defending anti-apartheid activists and fighting for the rights of prisoners on Robben Island. She went on to preside over the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, where her rulings recognised rape as an act of genocide, to serve as a judge of the International Criminal Court and, from 2008 to 2014, as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
At a time when international courts and the judges who serve them are under attack, her recognition is a powerful reminder that there can be no lasting peace without justice and accountability. Our International stands with all who defend human rights, international law and the independence of international institutions.
