Australian lawyer Jennifer Robinson has been awarded the 2026 Sydney Peace Prize, recognised for her commitment to international law and dedication to promoting human rights, including the protection of journalists and marginalised communities.
The Sydney Peace Foundation announced Robinson as the latest recipient of the prestigious award on Tuesday, which honours individuals who promote “peace with justice” through nonviolence and advocacy.
Robinson, who grew up in regional New South Wales attending public schools and went on to become a Rhodes scholar, has built an international career working on some of the world’s most high-profile human rights cases.
She is a barrister at Doughty Street Chambers and is widely known for her work defending journalists, whistleblowers and activists, including her long-running role on the legal team for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange. She has defended political prisoners and advocated for the United Liberation Movement and its leader Benny Wenda, and is a co-founder of the International Lawyers for West Papua.
In awarding the prize, the Sydney Peace Foundation highlighted Robinson’s commitment to challenging powerful institutions and defending those who speak out, particularly women and journalists facing legal and political pressure.
On being named the recipient of the prize, Robinson said it was a “profound and unexpected honour”.
“This recognition comes at a time when the international rule of law and human rights are under attack,” she said.
“International peace and security are under threat, not just from wars and war crimes, but also because of the climate crisis.
“In honouring me, you are also honouring the courageous clients and causes I have had the privilege to represent – individuals and movements who speak truth to power, challenge injustice, defend human rights and demand action on climate. I hope that this recognition will encourage them to continue – and encourage others to join in this effort.”
Robinson said she also hoped it would inspire young women in Australia’s public education system and from rural and regional areas.
“My sincere thanks to the Sydney Peace Foundation for this extraordinary honour and for championing the cause of peace and human rights.”
Robinson has been a vocal advocate against the use of legal systems to silence survivors of gender-based violence. Her book How Many More Women?, co-authored with Dr Keina Yoshida, examines how defamation laws and non-disclosure agreements can be weaponised to suppress women’s voices.
Robinson represented Amber Heard in her successful 2020 defamation case taken by Johnny Depp against The Sun, and has represented Vanuatu and the Marshall Islands in a landmark resolution to take climate change to the International Court of Justice.
She has also worked as an advisor to UN investigations and has conducted international human rights missions for the International Bar Association.
Robinson will formally receive the award at a ceremony at Sydney Town Hall later this year.
Feature image: Jennifer Robinson speaking at the 2024 Women’s Agenda Leadership Awards.