Navi Pillay, a prominent judge from South Africa, received the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday for her efforts in promoting peace and international law. The Nobel Committee of Norway stated in a statement that she has held governments and country leaders accountable through her activities and has given hope to victims of violence and conflicts.
Navi Pillay's Career Path
Pillay, with a long history of defending human rights, opened a law office in her home province of "Natal" as the first woman in 1967. She quickly began defending anti-apartheid activists and exposing torture during this period. The 85-year-old judge served at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague from 2003 to 2008 and then continued her work as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights until 2014.
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Pillay also chaired the United Nations Commission of Inquiry on the Palestinian Territories. This commission concluded last year that Israel committed "genocide" in Gaza, a claim that was rejected by Israel, labeling it "outrageous and disgusting."
Reactions to the Award
The United Nations Human Rights Office reacted to the news by celebrating Pillay's efforts and commitments to human rights. Shabia Mantoo, a spokesperson for the office, stated to reporters in Geneva: "This is fantastic news. We need more effort and commitment for human rights." She also emphasized the importance of awarding the Nobel Prize to those who speak out against human rights violations.
Jürgen Watne Fridens, the head of the Nobel Committee, sent a message to Navi Pillay due to the inability to contact her, asking her to respond if she receives a call from Norway. He said: "We would love to talk to you."
The Nobel Peace Prize, valued at 12 million Swedish kronor (approximately 1.07 million euros), is set to be awarded on December 10 in Oslo. This date marks the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's death, the founder of these awards. In total, 287 candidates were nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize this year, including 208 individuals and 79 organizations.
This award is the fifth Nobel Prize to be awarded this week. Additionally, other Nobel prizes will be announced soon. With this new honor, Navi Pillay once again emphasizes the importance and necessity of defending human rights and is recognized as an inspiring role model in a world that needs strong and brave voices.
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