9th October, 2026
This is a proud moment for the
global human rights movement. I warmly congratulate Navi. To
say it is well-deserved is an understatement.
At a
time when human rights are under attack on so many fronts,
including from those who wield enormous power, this award is
particularly poignant. It is an award to all those who,
around the world, dedicate their lives to the defence of
human rights – often at great risk to their
security,
This award to Navi Pillay is a recognition,
a reaffirmation that human rights, the rule of law and
justice and accountability are fundamental to everything –
to peace, security and prosperity.
She embodies
international law – having served in many functions, both
in South Africa and internationally as judge of the
International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, the
International Criminal Court, and the now International
Court of Justice.
On behalf of all her colleagues at
the UN Human Rights Office, thank you Navi. You continue to
inspire us and millions of others. We will
prevail.
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