On 03 September 2026, the Champions Committee received notification from Judge Pillay that she had declined to accept her award as Champion of the Year for 2025.
The committee understands and accepts the reasons given by Judge Pillay to decline the award. We extend our warmest good wishes to Judge Pillay and thank her for all her incredible work in securing justice throughout her career.
Judge Pillay will remain referred to as a laureate by this committee, and is committed to respecting the wishes of Judge Pillay.
ENDS