Renowned Pakistani architect Yasmeen Lari has declined the 2025 Wolf Prize in Architecture, citing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza as her reason. In a statement, Lari expressed her gratitude for the honor but stated, "While I am immensely grateful for this honour, in view of the unfortunate continuing genocide in Gaza, I am not able to accept the award and the prize money."
Known for her sustainable and socially conscious buildings, the Pakistani architect announced the rejection on 11 March in a letter to the privately-owned Wolf Foundation, which she shared on Instagram.
The Wolf Prize, awarded annually in Israel since 1978, recognizes outstanding achievements in various fields, including architecture. Lari's decision comes amid escalating violence in Gaza, where recent Israeli military actions have resulted in significant civilian casualties. Reports indicate that Israeli strikes have killed at least 15 Palestinians in the past 24 hours, including journalists and civilians. Additionally, a United Nations report has accused Israel of committing genocidal acts in Gaza, including attacks on women's healthcare facilities.
Yasmeen Lari outside Women's Centre, Pakistan © Heritage Foundation of Pakistan.
Lari, known for her pioneering work in sustainable and socially responsive architecture, emphasized that her decision was a stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people. She stated, "I declined the award because of the ongoing genocide in Gaza, a reason I explicitly stated in my response to them."
Past laureates in architecture include Álvaro Siza, Frank Gehry, Jean Nouvel and David Chipperfield.
With Lari turning down her 2025 Wolf Prize, Chinese architect Xu Tiantian of DnA_Design and Architecture is the only person in the architecture field to receive the prize this year.
The Wolf Foundation has yet to comment on Lari's decision. The situation in Gaza remains a focal point of international concern, with ongoing debates about the responsibilities of global institutions and individuals in addressing such crises.
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Cover photo: Yasmeen Lari © Anam Baig
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