It is my honour to formally inform you that the International Association of Judges (IAJ) has been nominated for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize.
The nomination was made by Even H. Eriksen, who is a member of the Norwegian Parliament, the Labour Party’s spokesperson on justice policy and First Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee on Justice.
In his letter of nomination Mr. Eriksen argues that the prize should be shared between IAJ and the International Court of Justice and highlights the essential role of an independent judiciary in safeguarding democratic governance, securing human rights, and contributing to processes of peace and reconciliation.
Mr. Eriksen emphasizes the global challenges judges face today, including increasing pressure on judicial independence and attempts in several jurisdictions to undermine courts that uphold the rule of law.
The nomination recognizes IAJ’s steadfast commitment to defending judicial independence worldwide and its enduring contribution to strengthening the international legal order.
Te Hunga Kaiwhakawa o Aotearoa, The Judges Association of New Zealand, JANZ, accredited with the IAJ in 2019. We believe that connecting judges by free association strengthens unity and so upholds judicial impartiality by allowing us to kindle values that must endure and matter both at home and abroad. Foremost of those values is judicial independence. JANZ is grateful for IAJ’s continuous work and stands proudly alongside this important nomination.
Judge Noel Sainsbury
President J.A.N.Z.
Te Hunga Kaiwhakawa o Aotearoa
Judges Association of New Zealand