South African Nobel Peace Prize winner Navi Pillay has urged the United States to restore its international leadership in protecting human rights amid growing tensions over international justice.
Speaking to Reuters in The Hague on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, the 85-year-old criticised Washington’s decision to impose sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Pillay, a former United Nations human rights chief, said the US should return to supporting international efforts to protect human rights.
Her comments follow the announcement of new sanctions against the ICC, just hours after she was named the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize winner.
US Sanctions Raise Concerns
On 9 October, the United States imposed sanctions targeting the ICC as an institution.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the court as a rogue institution and argued that it should not prosecute American citizens.
According to Reuters, the measures include a six-month suspension and exemptions for certain transactions.
The ICC strongly rejected the sanctions in an official statement, warning that they threaten its ability to investigate and prosecute serious international crimes.
The court said it remains committed to pursuing accountability for genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Pillay Defends International Justice
Pillay questioned the timing of the sanctions, which were announced shortly after her Nobel recognition.
She told Reuters that she visited ICC employees to express solidarity with those affected by previous US measures.
The Nobel laureate has spent decades defending international law and holding those responsible for serious human rights violations accountable.
She previously served as a judge at the ICC and as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
South Africa Celebrates Nobel Recognition
The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded Pillay the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize on 9 October for her contributions to peace and international law.
The committee highlighted her work against apartheid and her role in developing international criminal justice.
President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulated Pillay, describing her recognition as an important moment for South Africa.
The Department of Justice also praised her lifelong commitment to justice and human dignity.
Pillay’s latest appeal comes as the international community debates the independence and authority of global courts.
She continues to advocate for stronger international legal protections and accountability for serious crimes.