Nuremberg:South African jurist Navi Pillay, recently awarded the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, made a light-hearted comment regarding US President Donald Trump's assertions that he deserved the prestigious accolade. During an event, Pillay quipped that she might consider sharing the prize with Trump if the audience applauded more enthusiastically.
According to Anadolu Agency, Pillay's remark was captured in a video shared by Amnesty International Secretary-General Agnes Callamard on the social media platform X. Callamard noted that she was with Pillay at the historical Nuremberg Trials venue when they received the news of the award, describing it as an incredible moment and a strong symbol for the prize.
Pillay expressed her satisfaction in receiving the award while surrounded by colleagues dedicated to human rights. She highlighted her recent work, notably delivering a report on Gaza, which identified the situation as genocide. Pillay had chaired the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory from July 2021 until 2025, and her presentation to a UN General Assembly committee in October 2025 had established Israel's responsibility for genocide in Gaza.
Reflecting on the reactions to her report, Pillay mentioned being praised for her courage, though she was surprised by the response. She emphasized that her decisions were based on legal interpretation and factual analysis, aiming for impartiality.
At 85, Pillay remains active in international legal matters, serving as an ad hoc judge in The Gambia's case against Myanmar and supporting the Nuremberg Principles Academy. She affirmed her commitment to this work due to the important connections she has made.
Navi Pillay received the Nobel Peace Prize for her contributions to promoting peace and international law. Meanwhile, nominations for Trump came from Pakistan, Israel, and Cambodia, recognizing his involvement in resolving conflicts, though Trump has repeatedly claimed he deserves the award.