Renowned Pakistani architect Yasmeen Lari has declined the prestigious 2025 Wolf Prize for architecture. Awarded by the Israeli nonprofit Wolf Foundation, the prize includes a USD 100,000 reward, which Lari has forfeited in protest of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Her decision was articulated in an open letter addressed to the foundation and shared widely on social media.
The Wolf Prize, established in 1978, is an esteemed global accolade recognizing exceptional contributions to science and the arts that enhance the world. Lari, celebrated as Pakistan’s first female architect, has a distinguished career marked by innovative modernist designs that prioritize sustainability and accessibility, extending from commercial edifices to essential social housing.
Lari’s recent accolades include receiving the 2023 Royal Gold Medal from the Royal Institute of British Architects, affirming her influence and commitment to transformative architecture. However, her refusal of the Wolf Prize signals a powerful statement against what she described as the “unfortunate continuing genocide in Gaza,” despite the Wolf Foundation’s independence from the Israeli government.
This principled stand has sparked discussions within the global architectural community. Dr. Ahmed Khan, a noted architectural historian, remarked, “Lari’s decision highlights the moral responsibilities of artists and architects in times of conflict.”
Following Lari’s declination, the award in the architecture category for this year is solely bestowed upon Chinese architect Xu Tiantian.
Yasmeen Lari’s actions reflect a broader narrative of political and ethical considerations influencing cultural spheres. By intertwining her architectural prestige with humanitarian concerns, Lari continues to inspire global humanitarians with her unwavering commitment to both her craft and her convictions. Her decision resonates beyond architecture, provoking thought on the responsibilities of influential figures in advocating for social justice.
