The African Bar Association (AfBA) has congratulated South African jurist Judge Navi Pillay on winning the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, recognising her longstanding work in human rights, international justice and the rule of law.
In a congratulatory message, AfBA President Ibrahim Eddy Mark described Pillay as a distinguished jurist and internationally respected advocate for human rights, equality, justice and human dignity.
Mark said Pillay’s contributions to humanity and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among nations and peoples continued to inspire legal practitioners, judicial officers and human rights defenders across Africa and beyond.
The association also recalled Pillay’s participation as a keynote speaker at its Renaissance Conference in Harare, Zimbabwe, in 2016. Mark said her appearance remained a cherished memory and reflected the association’s longstanding connection with prominent advocates of justice and the rule of law.
Pillay made history as the first Black woman appointed to South Africa’s High Court. She later served as a judge at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the International Criminal Court, before becoming United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights from 2008 to 2014.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded Pillay the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize for her contributions to international law and efforts to advance accountability for war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide. Her career has included work defending anti-apartheid activists and service in international judicial institutions.
AfBA said Pillay’s career demonstrated the contribution African legal professionals could make to international justice and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
The association joined the wider legal community in celebrating the award, describing her commitment to accountability, equality and human dignity as an enduring source of inspiration.
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