The 1980 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Adolfo Pérez Esquivel in recognition of his sustained efforts in the defense of human rights. Born in 1931 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he established himself as a versatile figure who integrated his professional training in architecture and the arts with a lifelong commitment to nonviolent social activism.
Artistic Training and Academic Foundation
Pérez Esquivel received his formative education at the Manuel Belgrano School of Fine Arts and the National University of La Plata. He trained as a painter, sculptor, and architect. Over a period of 25 years, he taught at various levels, eventually serving as a professor of architecture. His academic career continued at the University of Buenos Aires, where he became a permanent lecturer and was appointed Professor of Peace and Human Rights Studies in 1998.
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In 1974, Pérez Esquivel co-founded Servicio Paz y Justicia (SERPAJ), an organization dedicated to promoting non-violence and defending the poor. Following the 1976 coup led by General Jorge Videla, he utilized this network to document state atrocities. His activism resulted in multiple detentions by authorities in Brazil, Ecuador, and Argentina. In 1977, he was arrested in Buenos Aires by the Argentine Federal Police, subsequently enduring 14 months of imprisonment and torture without trial.
Creative Output and Public Memorials
Beyond his political advocacy, he produced numerous artistic works including murals and monuments. Notable pieces include the 15-station Latin American Via Crucis created in 1992, the Monument to Refugees held at the UNHCR headquarters in Switzerland, and a bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi located in Barcelona. He also authored the 1995 book Caminando Junto al Pueblo, which documents his experiences applying nonviolent strategies in Latin America.
Distinctions and Global Engagement
Pérez Esquivel received various honors throughout his career, including the Pacem in Terris Award and the Medal of Honor of the Parliament of Catalonia in 2005. He also holds an honorary doctorate from the National University of San Marcos. His work has spanned international issues, ranging from support for the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo to campaigning against paramilitary training and participating in discussions regarding foreign military interventions in Libya and Syria.
Fast facts
- Born: 1931, Buenos Aires
- Citizenship: Argentina
- University education: National University of La Plata
- Nobel Peace Prize: 1980
- Pacem in Terris Award: 1999
- Medal of Honor of the Parliament of Catalonia: 2005
- Languages: Spanish
Questions readers ask
What is the primary focus of SERPAJ?
The Service, Peace and Justice Foundation promotes non-violence and the defense of human rights in Latin America.
Did Pérez Esquivel continue his teaching career during the dictatorship?
He relinquished his teaching post in 1974 to serve as coordinator general for a network of communities promoting the liberation of the poor.
Achievements
- Nobel Peace Prize — 1980
- Affiliated with University of Buenos Aires
- Educated at National University of La Plata
- Worked as architect, sculptor and painter
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