Trump's Pursuit of Peace Prize Raises Questions
With the Nobel Peace Prize about to be announced in October, U.S. President Trump's name has once again become the focus of public opinion. However, several scholars and individuals related to the Nobel Committee have made it clear that he is unlikely to receive this world-renowned honor.
Members of the Norwegian Nobel Committee have pointed out that the institution operates independently, immune to political pressure. There is a general consensus that Trump's foreign and security policies greatly deviate from the ideal of "promoting international peace," and indeed may have the opposite effect.
Experts Say Chances Are Slim
Nobel Prize historian Asle Sveen analyzes that Trump's strong support for Israel and his ambiguous relationship with Putin weaken his image as a "peace promoter." Nina Greg, director of the Oslo Peace Research Institute, adds that Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and the WHO, combined with initiating trade frictions, run counter to the prize's objective of "international cooperation."
Several scholars assert that not only is Trump unlikely to become a candidate, but his public insistence on receiving the prize further damages his impression in the eyes of the committee.
Humanitarian Organizations May Be Frontrunners
In experts' eyes, the frontrunners for this year's award are organizations that have played significant roles in humanitarian aid and international cooperation. The candidate shortlist may include the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Doctors Without Borders, or organizations protecting journalists. Given the record number of journalists killed in conflict zones in recent years, some analysts even predict that organizations related to press freedom could win.
Additionally, local mediation organizations, such as networks and committees involved in conflict resolution in Africa, are considered strong contenders. The contributions of such agencies align more closely with the Nobel Prize founder's will of "promoting friendliness between nations."
Lobbying Backfires
Trump has emphasized his "deservedness" of the award in multiple public venues, not forgetting to mention it during speeches at the UN General Assembly. Nobel Committee Vice Chairman Asle Toje has noted that excessive lobbying often yields negative results, and committee members greatly disdain such behavior.
A former Nobel Committee member explained that some leaders have admitted past mistakes and worked towards reconciliation before winning the Peace Prize. However, Trump has yet to demonstrate a similar stance. In contrast, if he could exert substantial influence on issues like Russia-Ukraine or Gaza, he might enter future discussions.
Selection Results Soon to Be Announced
The Nobel Peace Prize will be announced on October 10. Regardless of the outcome, Trump's intense lobbying and governing style have already become a focal point of external attention during this award process. As a current committee chairperson stated: "All politicians want peace prizes, but the award must reflect independence and fairness, which are the values we must protect."
