ISS and politicians among the candidates for the Nobel Peace Prize 2024

The annual speculation game before the announcement of the Norwegian Nobel Committee's verdict is entering a decisive phase. 287 candidates were submitted to this year's competition, of which just over a quarter are organizations. Although the choice of the winner remains traditionally secret, experts point out that the committee is looking for institutions that promote international brotherhood and the durability of peace in an era of growing conflicts.

The International Space Station as a symbol of reconciliation

At a time when multilateral diplomacy is weakening and countries are retreating to their positions where they defend particular national interests, the International Space Station (ISS) may seem to be one of the last bastions of transnational cooperation. Haakon Gjerløw, director of the Peace Research Institute in Oslo (PRIO) and one of the leading analysts involved in predicting the Nobel verdict, points to the unique dimension of the station.

This project - in his opinion - proves that even in the face of earthly divisions, it is possible for humanity to long-term, common striving to better understand the universe.

Political disputes and controversies surrounding earthly leaders

However, the list of potential winners does not differ from the current, hot international politics. The nominees once again include US President Donald Trump, who does not hide his ambitions to win the prestigious award. Experts note, however, that his chances are greatly complicated by the United States' involvement in conflicts in the Middle East.

Equally loud is the story of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, whose international position has increased in recent months, among others. thanks to its tough attitude in trade disputes with Washington. Analysts note that the election of any politician guarantees a huge political collapse.

Trump will be dissatisfied no matter who wins the Nobel Prize, says Nelson Wiseman, professor emeritus at the University of Toronto, in an interview with the Associated Press. In turn, if Carney received the award, (US) relations with Canada would become even more strained, he adds.

Analysts' favorites also include other entities and figures: the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Ukrainian children's rights advocates, the Committee to Protect Journalists and Sudan's Emergency Response Rooms (a grassroots network of local humanitarian aid).

The Norwegian Nobel Committee will announce this year's Nobel Peace Prize winner on October 9 in Oslo. The value of the financial prize this year is 12 million Swedish kronor (approx. USD 1.2 million). Regardless of the committee's final decision, this year's verdict - delivered in the shadow of a record number of armed conflicts worldwide - is sure to spark heated debate around the globe.