Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Deputy Human Rights Minister Mugiyanto on Monday welcomed the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize award to South African jurist Navanethem "Navi" Pillay, praising her longstanding contributions to advancing human rights.
In a statement, he highlighted her commitment to justice, civilian protection and enforcement of international law.
"Congratulations to Navi Pillay on winning the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. She is among the figures who have made significant contributions to the advancement of human rights worldwide," Mugiyanto said.
He cited Pillay's 2008-2014 tenure as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, when she called for an independent investigation into alleged rights violations in the final stages of Sri Lanka's 2009 civil war.
He said he was in Geneva in early 2009 and "witnessed firsthand Navi Pillay's determination" in responding to the conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
The LTTE was an armed separatist group that sought to establish an independent Tamil state in northern and eastern Sri Lanka.
He cited her roles as judge at the International Criminal Court, president of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and chair of the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Mugiyanto said her record underscores the importance of independent investigations and accountability for human rights violators.
He also praised Pillay for dedicating the prize to survivors of atrocities worldwide.
"Behind every human rights violation, there are people who suffer and continue hoping for justice. Their voices and hopes warrant recognition," the deputy minister said.
He hoped the prize would galvanize stronger efforts to protect human rights and inspire activists worldwide to continue advancing the cause.
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Translator: Devi Nindy, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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