Judge Navi Pillay’s Nobel Peace Prize Amplifies the Voice of Truth and the Oppressed

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine congratulates Judge Navi Pillay on being awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of her efforts to advance peace and uphold international law.

The Ministry affirms that this recognition is well deserved. Judge Pillay has devoted her life to upholding the primacy of law as the cornerstone of the international order and justice as its defining principle. Throughout her distinguished career, she has pursued the truth and defended the rights of the oppressed in South Africa and around the world, including Palestine, with integrity, courage, and honour.

The Ministry underscores Judge Pillay’s significant role in leading the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory from 2021 to 2025. Her work has made an important contribution to advancing justice for victims and exposing and documenting allegations of genocide, sexual violence, the targeting of children, and other crimes committed by Israel.

This recognition honours all those who stand firm in defending international law and justice, and in pursuing accountability for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Judge Pillay’s unwavering belief in the universality of law and the equal humanity of all people, including the Palestinian people, reaffirms a fundamental truth: there can be no lasting peace without justice and equality for all.