Nobel Peace Prize: Award Frequency Explained

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The Nobel Peace Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in the world, recognizes individuals or organizations who have done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies, and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses.

How Often Is the Nobel Peace Prize Awarded?

The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded annually. According to the statutes of the Nobel Foundation, it is awarded every year, and has been since its inception in 1901. The only exceptions to this annual tradition occur during wartime or other extraordinary circumstances.

Exceptions to the Annual Award

While the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded every year, there have been instances where it was not awarded. This has occurred primarily during World War I and World War II. Specifically, the prize was not awarded in the following years:

  • 1914-1916
  • 1918
  • 1923
  • 1924
  • 1928
  • 1932
  • 1939-1943
  • 1948
  • 1955-1956
  • 1966-1967
  • 1972

In some of these years, the Nobel Committee chose to reserve the prize money for the following year or reallocate it to the Nobel Foundation's funds. The decision not to award the prize reflects the committee's assessment that none of the nominees met the criteria set out in Alfred Nobel's will.

Nomination and Selection Process

The process of selecting a Nobel Peace Prize laureate is rigorous and involves multiple stages:

  1. Nomination: Thousands of individuals are invited to nominate candidates, including members of national assemblies and governments, university professors, past laureates, and members of international courts.
  2. Screening: The Nobel Committee reviews the nominations and creates a shortlist of potential candidates.
  3. Evaluation: The committee evaluates the contributions and merits of each candidate.
  4. Selection: The committee selects the laureate(s) through a majority vote.

The Nobel Committee, appointed by the Norwegian Parliament, makes the final decision. The secretive nature of the process ensures that the committee can deliberate without external pressure.

Notable Nobel Peace Prize Laureates

Over the years, many prominent figures and organizations have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Some notable laureates include:

  • Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Mother Teresa
  • Nelson Mandela
  • The United Nations
  • The European Union

These individuals and organizations have made significant contributions to peace, human rights, and international cooperation.

The Nobel Peace Prize Medal and Ceremony

The Nobel Peace Prize laureate receives a medal, a diploma, and a monetary award. The Nobel Peace Prize award ceremony takes place annually in Oslo, Norway, on December 10, the anniversary of Alfred Nobel's death. The event is a significant occasion, attended by dignitaries and members of the Norwegian royal family.

Conclusion

The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded annually, with exceptions made during significant global conflicts. The prize recognizes exceptional contributions to peace and is one of the highest honors an individual or organization can receive. The rigorous selection process ensures that the award is given to those who have truly made a difference in the pursuit of peace. If you want to learn more, consider visiting the official Nobel Prize website.