Jailed Iranian Women’s Rights Activist, Narges Mohammadi, Clinches the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize
The distinguished Nobel Peace Prize for 2023 has been awarded to the Iranian activist and journalist, Narges Mohammadi, in recognition of her relentless fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her continuous efforts towards promoting human rights and freedom for all. This announcement was made in Oslo by the Chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, Berit Reiss-Andersen.
Iranian activist Nargis Mohammadi-Image Source: AL-Arabiya
The Nobel Committee lauded Narges Mohammadi, 51, stating that she symbolized the spirit of the award for her enduring struggle for women’s rights in a challenging environment, thus reflecting the core essence of the peace prize.
BREAKING NEWS
The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided to award the 2023 #NobelPeacePrize to Narges Mohammadi for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her fight to promote human rights and freedom for all.#NobelPrize pic.twitter.com/2fyzoYkHyf— The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 6, 2023
Recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize not only receive global recognition for their commendable work but are also endowed with 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately one million US dollars), a medal forged from 18-carat gold, and a certificate. The formal ceremony is slated for December.
However, while this announcement sheds light on a beacon of hope, it’s critical to underscore that 2023 hasn’t seen significant strides towards global peace. This sentiment was echoed by the director of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute who candidly remarked about the lack of tangible peace advancements this year.
The Nobel Committee in Oslo reviewed an astounding 305 nominations this year, which included 212 individuals and 93 organizations.
For a clearer perspective on the Nobel Peace Prize’s legacy, here’s an overview of the last ten laureates:
| Year | Recipient(s) | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Narges Mohammadi (Iran) | Fight against women oppression in Iran & promoting human rights |
| 2022 | Ales Bialiatski (Belarus), “Memorial” (Russia), “Civil Liberties Center” (Ukraine) | Human rights activism |
| 2021 | Maria Ressa (Philippines), Dmitry Muratov (Russia) | Defending press freedom |
| 2020 | UN’s World Food Programme | Efforts to combat global hunger |
| 2019 | Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (Ethiopia) | Peace initiatives with Eritrea |
| 2018 | Dr. Denis Mukwege (Congo), Nadia Murad (Yazidi) | Fight against sexual violence in global conflicts |
| 2017 | International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) | Efforts for a treaty to prohibit nuclear weapons |
| 2016 | President Juan Manuel Santos (Colombia) | Commitment to end conflict with FARC rebels |
| 2015 | Quartet for National Dialogue (Tunisia) | Securing the democratic transition in Tunisia |
| 2014 | Malala Yousafzai (Pakistan), Kailash Satyarthi (India) | Struggle against child oppression & right to education |
| 2013 | Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons | Efforts to rid the world of chemical weapons |
Traditionally, a myriad of global figures including parliamentarians, ministers, previous winners, academicians, and others have the privilege of suggesting candidates before the January deadline. Members of the Nobel Committee can also propose candidates during their annual gathering.
