Renowned Pakistani architect and conservationist Yasmeen Lari has made headlines by refusing to accept the prestigious 2025 Wolf Prize in architecture, citing Israeli atrocities in Gaza as the reason for her decision.
The Wolf Prize, established in Israel in 1978, is awarded annually to scientists and artists for their exceptional contributions, with the stated aim of promoting “friendly relations among people.”
Lari explained her decision with conviction. “I had to do it. I had no choice. I had to. What can we do otherwise? Our hands are tied. We are sitting here… far, far away from them [people in the Middle East]. Therefore, I think one must tell where one stands.”
Yasmeen Lari, Pakistan’s first female architect, is celebrated not only for her groundbreaking architectural designs but also for her tireless work for the underprivileged. Known for her humanitarian efforts, she has helped construct thousands of low-cost, one-room homes for flood-affected communities in Sindh, earning her global recognition.
“Main ghareebon ky liye kaam kerti hun [I work for the underprivileged],” Lari said.
Her illustrious career has been marked by numerous accolades, including the 2023 Royal Gold Medal for Architecture, awarded by the British monarch on the recommendation of the Royal Institute of British Architects, and the Jane Drew Prize in 2020.
Lari’s contributions extend beyond architecture and humanitarian work. She has been a leading voice in conserving Karachi’s rich heritage. Her seminal book, The Dual City: Karachi During the Raj (1996), delves into the city’s colonial history, architecture, and people, and remains a cornerstone for those interested in Karachi’s past.
