UN Praises Navi Pillay for Receiving Nobel Peace Prize

Geneva, October 9 (KUNA) -- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk on Friday praised the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to South African judge Navi Pillay, stating that honoring her was a collective victory for human rights and the pursuit of justice and accountability.

Türk, speaking at a press conference in Geneva following the announcement of the Nobel Peace Prize, emphasized that the honor was not limited to Pillay’s efforts regarding Palestine, but also encompassed her contributions in addressing numerous conflicts and situations around the world. He added that Pillay, who previously served as a judge at the International Criminal Court, exemplifies the importance of international judicial institutions, noting that awarding her the prize sends a strong message of support for these institutions amid the attacks and sanctions they face.

He viewed the recognition as an international acknowledgment and a powerful message underscoring the importance of international law and mechanisms of international criminal justice, particularly in light of escalating attacks on the human rights system, including the UN Human Rights Council, the High Commissioner for Human Rights, special rapporteurs, and the International Criminal Court.

It is worth noting that South African judge Navi Pillay chaired the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, which concluded in September 2025 that the occupation had committed genocide in the Gaza Strip. (End) A.M.Kh./A.M.S.