Islamabad/Oslo – In a surprising diplomatic move, Pakistan has nominated former U.S. President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Peace Prize, one of the world’s most prestigious honors, is awarded to individuals or organizations that have made substantial contributions to the cause of peace and humanity.
Since its inception in 1901, the Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded 105 times to 139 laureates — a mix of individuals and organizations. It was established as part of the will of Alfred Nobel, the Swedish inventor and industrialist, who stated the prize should be awarded to the person or group that has done:
“the most or best work for the promotion of fraternity between nations, the reduction of armed forces, and the organization of peace congresses.”
A Brief History of the Peace Prize
Initially focused on pacifists and peace movement activists, the scope of the Nobel Peace Prize expanded over the 20th century to include political leaders, humanitarian workers, and international organizations. After both World Wars, recognition shifted towards efforts in diplomacy, post-conflict reconstruction, and global reconciliation. In recent decades, the prize has also acknowledged climate action and environmental advocacy as essential to sustaining peace.
Global Recognition
Until the 1960s, most laureates came from Europe and North America. That changed when Albert John Lutuli of South Africa became the first recipient from outside those regions in 1960, marking a step toward a more inclusive and global recognition of peace efforts.
The Nobel Peace Prize has since celebrated a wide range of initiatives — from disarmament and peace treaties to human rights campaigns and grassroots activism across continents.
Prize Details
Laureates receive a diploma, a gold medal crafted in 18-carat gold, and a cash prize currently valued at 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately USD 1 million). The medal bears Alfred Nobel’s image and the Latin inscription:
“Pro pace et fraternitate gentium”, meaning “For peace and fraternity among peoples.”
The award ceremony takes place on December 10 in Oslo, Norway, attended by members of the Norwegian royal family, global dignitaries, diplomats, and civil society leaders. The celebration also includes public lectures, exhibitions, and media engagements highlighting the laureate’s contributions.
While Trump’s nomination by Pakistan has not been elaborated on publicly, it has already sparked global curiosity and debate. If shortlisted or selected, Trump would join a small group of world leaders recognized for efforts to reduce conflict — though the decision ultimately rests with the Norwegian Nobel Committee, which evaluates nominations in strict confidentiality.