The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded the 2026 Peace Prize to South African-born jurist Navanethem 'Navi' Pillay for her efforts to advance peace and international law. Pillay challenged apartheid, served as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and a judge at the International Criminal Court, and has participated in International Court of Justice proceedings and international investigations. The committee stressed that, as international law and its institutions face pressure, durable peace depends on the rule of law, accountability and human rights. The award recognizes a lifetime of public contribution and a value direction; it does not mean contested cases have unanimous state acceptance, and impact still depends on enforceable institutions.