Who Will Win the Nobel Peace Prize?

We will know it on Friday morning

The Norwegian Nobel Institute (photo by author)

Tomorrow morning, we will know who will be awarded the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize. It must have been a challenge for the Norwegian Nobel Committee of five experts to find the best person or organization while three major conflicts rage in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Sudan. The need for peace has never been more pressing, while some may say that with so much warfare, there couldn't be winners for peace.

I believe there is always someone in the world who deserves the prize; even in wartime, brave individuals will always be willing to give everything for a more peaceful future. For instance, this year, the Norwegian Nobel Committee has an opportunity to recognize those working tirelessly to promote democracy and uphold international law.

After listening to experts' predictions, including Henrik Urdal, director of the Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO), I believe the Committee may focus on a theme that demands urgent attention: safeguarding democracy in a time of mounting challenges worldwide. Election observers are pivotal in guaranteeing free and fair elections. Awarding the Peace Prize to the observers would also recognize the importance of free and fair elections for promoting peace and stability.

One potential laureate that stands out is the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). As Urdal pointed out, ODIHR's work in observing elections across the OSCE's 57 participating states is crucial in ensuring their legitimacy. ODHIR's efforts to provide technical assistance and improve electoral frameworks make the organization a worthy candidate.

Another organization that could share the prize with ODHIR is the Carter Center, which has observed 115 elections in over 40 countries. Honoring the Carter Center would not only recognize their important work but also pay tribute to President Jimmy Carter's legacy of promoting peace and democracy. This choice would be particularly significant given Carter's recent 100th birthday. It could also signal a message to the United States about preserving its democratic institutions at a time when one presidential candidate is less committed to democracy and the rule of law.

Other candidates