Navi Pillay joins South Africa’s Nobel Peace Prize legacy
From Durban-born Navi Pillay’s recognition for her human rights advocacy to Nelson Mandela, FW de Klerk and Desmond Tutu’s historic contributions to peace and democracy, South Africa’s Nobel Peace Prize legacy reflects a longstanding fight for justice, equality and human rights.
Former US President Donald Trump voiced his anger and disdain after the Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize to Navi Pillay, a South African human rights lawyer. Trump, who has been accused of involvement in civilian casualties during the Iran conflict, called the decision "disgraceful and embarrassing," claiming it has left an "indelible stain" on Norway.
He argued that the committee's choice discredits the Nobel Prize and that nations like Norway are "ripping off" the US. Meanwhile, civil society organizations and international bodies celebrated the award, praising Pillay's work in advancing international justice and human rights, including her role in a UN report that concluded genocide in Gaza.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
