Nobel Peace Prize Winner Navi Pillay Visits ICC, Praises Commitment to Justice

By Habari News | October 12, 2026

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — Newly named Nobel Peace Prize laureate Navanethem “Navi” Pillay visited the International Criminal Court on Monday, meeting with officials and staff and expressing support for their work during challenging times for international justice. International Criminal Court

Pillay, a former ICC judge, praised the dedication of the Court’s practitioners, saying their “compassion and courage continue to ensure that impunity will not be allowed to reign.” Her visit came three days after the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced her as the 2026 Peace Prize recipient for her efforts to promote peace and international law. International Criminal Court

A Return to the Court

Pillay served as an ICC judge from 2003 to August 2008. She also served as a judge and president of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, helping shape the development of international criminal justice. International Criminal Court

Her career began in apartheid-era South Africa, where she defended opponents of racial segregation. She later served as United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights from 2008 to 2014. The Nobel Committee recognized her contributions to accountability for genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. Nobel Peace Prize

Akane Connects Recognition to Lasting Peace

ICC President Tomoko Akane congratulated Pillay on the award, describing it as recognition of international justice’s essential role in building lasting peace. International Criminal Court

The Nobel Committee similarly emphasized the importance of legal institutions at a time when international law faces growing political pressure. Its announcement framed Pillay’s work as a reminder that accountability and the peaceful resolution of conflicts depend on respect for the rule of law. Nobel Peace Prize

Pillay’s return to the ICC brought that message directly to the officials and staff carrying out the Court’s work: pursuing justice requires both institutional support and the courage of those entrusted with it.