Former UN human rights chief Navanethem "Navi" Pillay, an international court of justice judge, has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Born in South Africa, 85-year-old Pillay is honored for her contributions to promoting peace and international law, as stated by Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel committee.
The committee highlighted Pillay's lifelong dedication to justice, from defending Nelson Mandela and others against apartheid to her significant role in key international court cases. At a time when global conflicts are on the rise and international law faces political challenges, the Nobel committee emphasized the importance of resolving conflicts through law rather than force.
Pillay's recognition underscores the necessity of an international legal system that holds war criminals accountable and delivers justice to abuse victims, seen as essential for global peace.
The Oslo-based committee received 287 nominations for this year's prize, with over a quarter for organizations. Typically, the committee focuses on sustainable peace, international fraternity, and institutions that support these objectives.
Last year's Nobel Peace Prize went to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado for her efforts in promoting democratic transition in Venezuela. She symbolically presented her Nobel medal to Donald Trump after the US ousted then-President Nicolás Maduro, though the Nobel committee clarified the honor cannot be transferred.
Nominations for the prize are limited to a select group, including heads of state, politicians, university professors, foreign policy institute directors, past Nobel laureates, and Norwegian Nobel committee members.
Earlier this week, four other Nobel Prizes were announced: Medicine was awarded to three scientists for developing a tool using light to study brain function. Physics recognized efforts to demystify a rare group of neutrinos. Chemistry honored two scientists for their work on understanding mirror images in molecules, aiding drug development.
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