The Nobel Committee said President Obama was awarded for “his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and co-operation between peoples”.There were a record 205 nominations for this year’s prize. Zimbabwe’s prime minister, Morgan Tsvangirai, and a Chinese dissident had been among the favourites.
Was President Obama the right choice? Do you think he’d achieved enough to deserve the prize? If not president Obama who would you have chosen?
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Never has a person done so little to win such an important award! This award is for work done so far and not future work, this is ridiculous.
An award for the rhetoric? The risk is if he dosen’t follow through with action it will hurt the legitimacy of the organization issuing these awards.
yes it for both concrete and abstract achivement
Fully agree.Understand it was given ” to give the world hope “.
I am from an older generation and remember , that, unfortunately Sir Neville Chamberlain gave the world , albeit, for a short period also hope, with desastrous consequences !
Hope , that President Obama is not repeating history by just talking and not making , if required , painfull decisions.
Bart
The Peace Obama and his people have achived in a very short time, is more than what George Bush and Tony Blair achived in eight years. He did not ask for it, he was offered. ‘The charitable give out at the door, and God puts in at the window.’
Yes, I agree with your comments completely. It is too early to choose him for any awards. An award for nothing I would say. Srilanka´s president Rajapakse does deserve this award because he has rescued over 300 000 people who were under the clutches of a terrorist group- LTTE and allowing eleminating terror activities within srilanka. It was a war that was drawn to 30 or more years. But this president´s efforts caused to stop its civil war between tamil millitants LTTE and government defence forces.
Yes I fully agree with you,Sri Lanka’s president Mahinda Rajapakse truly deserve
this prize he has done what he said,that is a free Sri Lanka,havent this three
decade old war not won it would have been draged on for atleast a century and
would have killed hundreds and thousands of innocent lifes.He not only felt
pressure from powerful countries but also falsely charged him with war crimes
but he stood his ground and restored a lasting peace in this paradise
Island….Obama does not deserve this prize at this moment becaues his job is
unfinished,today millions of innocent peoples still suffer because of American
foriegn policy…..
We the Kurds are the biggest ethnic people in the world without independent state “more than 52 millions scattered in Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Syria, Armenia, and Azerbaijan”.
It is a joke for a guy like Obama who never mentioned the Kurd to be awarded Nobel Peace Price. As a Kurd, I don’t see this guy deserving this price at all as he has only talks rubbish without actions.
President Obama deserves to be awarded the Nobel prize for peace for his commitment. There is no reason to believe that he will not deliver on his promises. He will and he deserves the honour
This is a joke, right? ‘Efforts’? What’s he achieved? He had a chance to end the disastrous Afghan adventure; he escalated it: now he’s got a prize for ‘peace’? So, an industrial-scale output of ozone-destroying vaporous liberal rhetoric now makes you a Nobel Laureate? At least the IOC saw thru him. This is an affirmative action award, devoid of anything resembling desert. Much like his presidency.
This is the supreme example of what Steve Sailer called the ‘onionisation’ of society (from the humorous publication). Things now happen in real life that make satire meaningless.
I’m going to lie down now.
I think Barack Obama does deserve the award. The last eight persons who won, either
received it for efforts towards democracy or peace. Koffi Annan (2001 with the UN), Jimmy Carter, Ashitaari and the climate change board all won because of efforts not efforts not achievements.
Koffi Annan’s work with the UN in many part of the world was not just an effort, work in progress could be celebrated, the efforts of UN at bringing peace was evident when the prize was won. Jimmy Carter effort in many part of the world at bringing peace and that also was effort seeing and still progressively growing even at the end ofhis term in office… Ashitaari and the climate change board brought attention of thr world to what evil is besieging us… But Nobel prize for speeches and effort… it is a joke…
Are you kidding me and all those people deserved it too?? This is a joke. The whole Nobel Peace Prize is a joke and everyone that supports it is naive.
fully agree,
What has he done for PEACE???
Hello again
And hello Chintan. I agree with you completely. The Nobel peace prize has gone from obcenity, when Kissinger won it to the ridiculous now. I think the best thing Obama can do is to refuse it saying that maybe one day he will deserve it.
Jim
President Obama is not the problem…The fault lies with the Nobel Prize Committee. They have made this supposedly august institution a symbol of mockery…and, they should, in the most honorable way, terminate its existence
The award went to him because of his desire for diplomacy. He has talked about how the world must be free of nuclear weapons. But this without results. Its a reward he gets for his efforts to achieve peace but not actually advancing peace. Koffi Annan never won the award for his efforts that ended the post election violence in Kenya?
Obama has won it but its just that he has been able to promise peace and made a call for countries to come together to deal with the world problems through diplomacy……
The Peace Prize award could be more of a response to the “Bush Doctrine” that did not promote peace (preemptive strikes). A serious effort to regain peaceful initiatives.
what he did for peace till now, so on the basis of that they should award him .
he is president of united states, only this basis they should award him.
Just repeating some of the points made by George Will, the Washington Post columnist:
Barak Obama has not achieved several important goals he has set out to do,
1. Climate change regulation – India and China gave him a thumbs down and are still building coal fired plants.
2. Guantanamo bay – He asked it to be closed by February 2010, will not be done.
3. Health care reform – the opposition to that bill in the house and senate is mind numbing
4. Reduce nuclear weapons – Iran and North Korea want nuclear weapons. India, China and Israel won’t sign nuclear non-proliferation treaty.
5. Afghanistan – in his campaign he said he will bring the fight against terrorism hard to Al Qaeda, but now he has second thoughts about troop increase.
6. Job losses – Said job losses will not be above 9%, currently in the USA that figure stands at 9.8% with no end in sight.
7. Israel-Palestine conflict – Israel won’t stop building settlements and Hamas criticized that Obama received the noble peace prize.
8. Iran – USA wants sanctions, but co-operation from China and Russia is lukewarm to say the least.
9. Honduras – Wants the ousted president reinstated, no one is listening.
This president is ADORED YET IGNORED
Absolutely! No one has captured the world’s attention and given us hope more than President Obama for a more compassionate and peaceful world. His unyielding commitment to diplomacy and recent calls for nuclear disarmament deserve to be praised as enormous strides to achieving peace. He’s not done and a lot of work is a head, but Obama has taken the first and second steps and that is worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize honor.
I have just listen to the place back of the announcement and the he Nobel committee said it awarded President Obama the prize for his “extraordinary work to strengthen international diplomacy”. That is indisputable.
@McKeith: precisely! that’s what’s so shocking. For all we know of the future his Presidency could end with the US at war with every Muslim country in the world (whether for a real, supected or manufactured Al Quaeda presence), with tens of millions of civilians dead and mutilated in wars of US intervention, with the Taliban on the brink of victory in Afghanistan, with fundamentalists set to capture nuclear Pakistan, with Iran a nuclear wasteland, but at least the man on whose watch it all happened will have a Nobel Peace Prize!
That’s why the prize isn’t given in prospect, but in retrospect. Till now.
What will he do with the money? I would hope he would donate it to the poor. He gets $1.4 million
He won. WHY? I don’t understand. How can someone win for his intentions and not his achievements? Strange world we are living in.
Good for him. Don’t know what the competition was, but there doesn’t seem to be that much peace in the world these days. You never know with this title more people may listen to him. Many people seem to disagree with the award, but its not unexpected. These days words and opinions seem to speak louder than actions. I hope he can do something good. If you look at human history people think in terms of the “tribe”. As we have become more civilized conflicts have involved more, not less nations. With the current globalization trend. I feel that something very very bad is brewing. Roll on Dec. 21st 2012!
Was it a raffle prize at Comic-Con?
As Jim Newman said, Obama should refuse the award until he deserves it.
He is an empty suit who has accomplished NOTHING so I guess we now give awards for style over substance.
@Steve – I am sure Obama will give the money to ACORN.
Wow, Dan, good job perpetuating lies and misconceptions.
Obama has accomplished more than most presidents combined in one year of service. He acknowledged “[he] accepts this award as a call to action” and that the prize does not belong to him alone nor can he do the work alone.
The committed said it awarded him this honor for his “extraordinary work to strengthen international diplomacy”. Considering the work of the last person who occupied the White House, that within itself was a monumental task.
Jessica, I think some examples might be warranted? Have any to offer?
Let’s remember to get prize you must first get nominated… he was nominated 2 weeks after getting into office… so again what had he achieved? Let’s face it, he got a prize for being the first black American president…. who is wildly popular all over the world… is this worth a prize? I guess 5 Belgian guys seems to think so…. Nobel is a joke!!!
Thanks heavens the comittee has the ability to focus on the facts and the purpose for which the award was named. They were able to see that while we are still bugged down in wars, President Obama’s pursuit of peace is no minor matter. When they compared the efforts of the other 250 plus candidates he rose to the top. This to me seems logical. The “Rushes” and other noise makers would not be able to comprehend this simple fact. Do keep up the good work Prez. Congrats to the Nobel Comittee.
Dan,
You are correct.
Obama has clearly stated that ACORN and SEIU have seats at his table.
This is something that some consider a misinterpretation because it looks bad. It looks bad because it is bad. Voter fraud, human trafficking, setting up brothels…..yuck.
Shame shame shame…..whoever next gets the nobel prize; many probably won’t be impressed. 😦
Disappointing!
Maybe peaceful corruption…..
here’s an SNL skit, where someone dressed as obama gives a “presidential address” talking about how he’s done nothing (as an allusion to yesterday’s discussion, notice that the makeup ISN’T black paint, it’s brown; I think that was part of the reason the Jackson Jive skit was offensive)
anyways, I voted for a third party candidate (in U.S. politics, the third party candidate has next to no chance of winning, it’s considered throwing your vote away, but I am a man of principle), but fully expected Obama to win. I was not upset at him winning (I feel I need to say this to avoid being labeled as potentially bias). But he has disappointed. It took him 3 months to find a dog! Then, he took a helicopter to new york to watch a play?
you know, I want peace really, really badly, too- does that mean I should get the nobel prize?
Yes.
For the first time the Nobel Committee redeemed itself by awarding the Nobel to Obama,who demonstrates that to be engaged in peace and consensus is to prevent war rather than to be prepared for war is to ensure peace.
His firm, yet non dogmatic approach to North Korea ,Iran ;his slow and steady march to unentangle US from the quagmire of Iraq,not easily committing to troop increase in Afghanistan,his firm, yet reconciliatory message to Pakistan,firm approach to China,attempting to build bridges with Russia,respecting EU, not treating UK as a vassal state of the US,not trying to promote tin pot dictatorship through out the world,not engaging Hugo Chavez in unnecessary war of words,treating French President’s childish out bursts with good humor, promoting ties with India, the largest democracy of the world, reaching to non Muslims and Muslims with equal candor ,not flexing US muscle at the drop of a hat,sacking US diplomat for unseemly intrusion into Afghan affairs-all this display the skill and dexterity of a statesman who believes in what he thinks as best for the world.
May God Bless his efforts and thank you, Nobel.
Virtual-high-five! I did not think the day would come in my life time when I heard a US President discuss and end to nuclear proliferation and actively follow up with discussions and engage other world leaders. Which is the first, second and third steps.
I was quite surprised to hear that Obama had been awarded the prize. While I think his change of approach in US foreign policy is a good thing, there were maybe some more deserving people on the list of nominees. But the award does seem to send a message that the Committee supports the general direction toward more peaceful and diplomatic relations between states that Obama has taken; surely they are well within their remit to take such a position.
Tom,
Very true, but being on a short list for the prize is an honor. It’s a shame that there can only be one winner especially when there are people who have dedicated their lives to this work. However, we must consider some people posses influence over events and issues that most people will never be able to do–even with a life time of achievements. Those people deserve it just as much if not more in some cases for their longevity and commitment, but there’s more to consider in the big picture.
What the hell did Bush Do? Give this man a chance to do something!!
I am absolutely delighted and pleasantly surprised. It has been Obama’s humane, honest and sincere approach to the world issues including peace, right from the start of his social and political deliberations, before and after becoming President of the USA, that has won him national and now international accolade and laurels. My heartiest congratulations to him and his family.
OUTRAGEOUS!
I tend to be a measured person, but this time I cannot find my words to express my outrage to that decision as well as the discredit that it brings to the prize.
M. Obama has done the nice speeches that were expected from him (if looking back on his campaign promises) until now. But other than speeches he has yet achieved nothing, just shown good will. That might look a lot in comparison with M. Bush, but than both should I have got it.
There is only one conclusion to this: corruption within the nomination counsel. How can that be otherwise? Maybe indeed, there were so few value candidates that the best of the worst is the current laureate.
every time a liberal gets the award (ie carter) the small-minded petty people scream about the bias liberal counsel.
can’t you people come up with a different whine?
i am a far left radical liberal and obama is far too right wing for me. but unlike the
war mongers before him he is attempting to talk to iran, isreal,palestine, (“we don’t talk to evil” cried the evildoers before him) and bring down the military industrial complex running the government. of course he’s no looking for bin laden either since he had nothing to do with 9-11 and is already dead (or back at his desk job at the CIA) but when JFK tried to bring peace with russia, open relations with cuba,get out of vietnam and investigate the real war mongers and evil doers within our USA
(CIA, military) look what happened. obama is trying to stay alive and do the best he can. you racists out there who fume over any success he has are tiresome and frightening.
I am speechless at this stunning announcement.
Vey well knowing the collosal criticism they would be exposed to….the Nobel Prize comitte yet made this stunning selection !!
Why?
a Reward for his honest but naive and chimerical but neverthless COLOSSAL AMBITIONS and INTENTIONS to have peace with Cuba and Iran and Russia and rest of Islamic world, and, and compassion for the Palestinians, Afgans and Iraqis and pull the country out of the Economic Chaos and the mountainous efforts in health care refors……and all that within 6 months of power.
Much as I continue to think Obama is Naive…….there is no doubting he is an honest, kind and good hearted man….and for a change not the results but merely that goodness has been rewarded.
a_D in Kuwait
Hi,
I am Philip from Mumbai, India.
President Obama definitely not the person to get this Nobel Peace Prize.
What has he done/ has he achieved ANY Peace ANY where?
He has still to get his government off the ground and into a running state. What with the economy and the unemployment and his health issues being downgraded, side lined and opposed by his own party members and a section of his voters who are now seeing him for what he is and with what he does that is not on his platter for good governance?
He has let his party down and his voters.
This issue is a start to ry and get Obama into the lime light .
This is an awful mistake.
Philip.
09. 10. 09
Indeed he deserves it more than many who received it in the past i.e. Jimmy Carter, Anwar Sadat, Menachem Begin, Ronald Reagen, Michael Gorbachev and many of their ilk. Obama is not given the Nobel Peace Prize for what he has done or achieved; in fact it has been conferred on him to make him committed to the words he had uttered when he became the first African American President of the U S. Being an Indian and peace loving individual I do not give any value to this Nobel Peace gimmick which has not been given to the most deserving individual who died upholding the principles of non-violence. Notwithstanding President Obama deserves it since it is considered to be something coveted by many except me.
It’s amazing – after the legacy of george w. bush, all you have to do it NOTHING to be awarded the coveted Nobel Peace Prize!
-Chumley Singer, Philadelphia PA USA
I personally think this is an odd decision and deserves the criticism is is getting. However, many people seem to forget that this is not something Obama was personally competing for. The Nobel Prize Committee, for whatever reason, submitted his name. He cannot be blamed for their decision.
He hasn’t had time to achieve anything yet. It does seem like he wants to improve the USA’s relationship with the rest of the world, but peace doesn’t happen overnight. Also, when compared to George W. Bush, almost anybody will seem deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize.
The link below is the complete list of all former Nobel laureates.
http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/
All the laureates have dedicated the better part of their lives striving for the betterment of the world by their actions and endeavors and not just motivational speech!
My President does not qualify to be in this category… at least not YET!
Desmond Tutu, Mikhail Gorbachev, Kofi Annan, Aung Suu Kyi rallied nations to change the world and make it a better place for it’s people… President Obama has just made speeches at the G-summits… and probably rallied the democrats in the corn states…I dont see what is so NOBEL about that…
If it wasn’t enough that that world organizations like the UN, World Bank, IMF (CNN, FOX news, WSJ…) are tainted to be prejudiced to America… now we have the NOBEL organization to add to the list.
Whats next … make him a saint and put him in the Vatican?
He rejected a lucrative career in favour of a $13,000 a year community organizing position, working with the poorest of the poor in the United States. He went into politics for all the right reasons – to do what he could do end the injustices he has seen in his lifetime. He has carried his values with him all the way to the White House. His life so far has been one achievement after another. All the best to him.
You are right, Trish. And he has also changed the tone of U.S. engagement in the world in less than a year – and so changed the tone across the globe. He started doing this even before he was elected, which is why, I think, so many in the world respect him. I wonder if nay-sayers can remember how confrontational and aggressive U.S. foreign policy was during the last administration. This had frightening implications and caused a lot of fear across the globe. I was not sure the damage could ever be undone, but President Obama has made extraordinary inroads by the force of his personality.
What also remains unsaid is the courage he displays every day. Obama is the first person of African descent to be president of the U.S. As such, he has received exponentially more death threats than any other president. He and his family are working under a kind of stress it is hard to imagine. Yet he continues to work toward the changes that will bring a more peaceful and just world.
So YES, President Obama “deserves” the Peace Prize. In fact, the question itself is insulting.
Given that nominations closed two weeks after he was elected, Obama must have worked unseen miracles in those two weeks that will only become evident to the rest of us mere mortals at some unspecified future moments. But the wise and prescient Norwegians really outdid themselves this time. Gimme a break!
Obama is the best thing to come out of America,
This is absurd. How about Obama ends one of these two awful wars first?
How sad that now we reward INTENTIONS over actual ACCOMPLISHMENTS.
This inspires people to do NOTHING with their lives, have no moral certainty and in the end will result in BILLIONS dying in wars beacuse intentions are no substitute for actions.
Why does anyone expect better from the Nobel Foundation? While completely failing to fulfill that which is set forth as criteria, Obama’s lack of accomplishment isn’t as directly in conflict with those criteria as were Arafat’s accomplishments. The Nobel Foundation mirrors Nobel’s initial naivete rather than advancing peace.
since when is hope without value to the persuit of peace and all the great possibilities that humankind know is achieveable if we believe. The Obama movement will outlast his presidency. Just as al queda universally represents the force of evil intent against free people, Obama and his supporters represent a movement that believes the world can be a better place.
All I know for sure is that this is going to make today a real drag as the Limbaugh disciples I work with are sure to blame Obama for being chosen, probably as part of a left-wing liberal/socialist conspiracy.
I don’t think he’s accomplished enough yet to deserve it but that hardly matters. All this will do is deepen the polarization in this country and add fuel to the fires of toxic radio and Fox tv.
It’s going to be a long day…
No, I dont think he deserves it at all!
He might be better than Bush and is giving some hope to alot of people but realistically he hasn’t fulfilled any of the promises he has made. I think he might deserve it but in 10-15 years time when something siginificant has been done by him.
The focus of criticism should be on the Nobel committee, not the award winner. President Obama’s record “is what it is.” To me, the selection committee did not follow the selection criteria, as established by the prize’s founder. Unfortunately, this award now puts the President in awkward situation, and provides another target on his back for which his detractors have already taken aim.
Well they gave it to Jimmy Carter and Yassir Arafat, so why should anyone be surprised? It’s a left-wing beauty contest.
Next Obama will win an Academy Award for best dramatic performance in a political campaign.
Wonderful news, he truly is an International Man. Pity the general public cannot appreciate this.
I have been searching my mind for something Obama has achieved, but can’t find a thing. This award will discredit the Noble Committee. Surely there are people more deserving.
It should be a whole new catagory. Instead of the Nobel Peace Prize it should be more accurately called the Nobel Prize for HOPE.
Looking around there is very few others human beings offering much in the way of Peace, so maybe it is approapriate after all. He does exude a rather convincing degree of inspiration……let’s HOPE he can eventually deliver on the world stage degrees of peace and goodness for the majority of peoples.
troop on the Oregon Coast
Salaam guys,
The choice is too early and very premature, but let me sincerely congratulate Mr Obama on his winning, and as a Middle Eastern citizen I do demand him to work more seriously on bringing a fair, just, and perminant peace into the region of the Middle East and stop agonising Israel in public and bowing infront of her behind closed doors, it’s not enough that he’s way much cuter than Mr Bush, Mr Bush was funny too you know… With my love… Yours forever, Lubna in Baghdad…
Lubna sweetie, please give the guy a chance. He has a mountain to climb and a ton of malevolance to overcome in his own country. He is a human being, and the NP I feel was the rest of the Western world trying to offer support to his efforts to employ real diplomacy – i.e. that isn’t at the end of a gun, or a nuke.
No more axis of evil and the like, but intelligent, informed negotiation, critical reflection, in all our interests.
He is deserving of the award. At the end of his term he may again be nominated and win.
Check the following –
“Apparently, the names are chosen the year before, in November 2008, and the final names go forward at the beginning of February, with the chosen winner; although, the name of the winner is not announced before now. So, according to CNN, Oslo knew that Obama was going to win only 2 weeks after he became President!!!!!! But, as someone said, in reference to his failed attempt to use his charisma to bring the 2016 Olympic Games to Chicago, “it seems that Oslo knows something that Copenhagen doesn’t!” And, he’s only the 3rd sitting President to have been awarded the Nobel Peace prize, the last was 90 years ago.”
This was the most ridiculous news today i heard. to me the Europeans want to flatter or please him. for what ?
it seems that those who committed themselves to peace and justice have been forgotten by this choice.
I wander if Alfred Nobel were alive would he again allocate his money for this price that’s just and only politically motivated?
Fresh From Iran, I am as surprised as anyone to see Obama getting the Nobel Peace prize. For the West, an American President is a cult figure. He does not have to do anything positive to receive an accolade from Europe.
The Nobel Peace Prize has descended through the ridiculous (Mohandas Gandhi never won the prize, despite having been nominated five times), the obscene (Henry Kissinger), to the absurd, Obama’s “Award f or Rhetoric”.
The world is agog at this man, and why? For simply being a competent politician. I do not agree with Mr Obama on many issues, but he meets my minimum requirements for an elected official, which, sadly in the United States, puts him head and shoulders above the rest. Persons of his caliber should not be unusual in public office. Unfortunately, they are.
Obama’s being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize is powerful testimony to inability of American politics to attract the best and the brightest. Yes, Obama is far better than his predecessor, but simply because he is competent.
Far from elevating Barack Obama, this award only debases the legacy of Alfred Nobel. Mr Obama should do what is right and refuse this Prize.
That world leaders are so much more positive in their reaction than are the mass of the world’s peoples only demonstrates that, as a group, world leaders understand each other far better than any of them understand their own people.
From the Norwegian noble prize website:
“The deadline for nominating a candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize is February 1”
Obama’s inaugurationon was at january the 20th 2009, so how can he get the prize? I think Obama is a good president but there is no way he should be awarded the peace prize.
YES, HE ABSOLUTELY DESERVES TO WIN THE NOBEL PRIZE.
Peace and equality take time and effort to achieve, but throughout all his decision making processes, both in America and on the international stage, he shows quiet determination to bring about a more equitable, just, tolerant and peaceful world.
He has inspired hope in the hearts of millions.
There will always be cynics and critiques who do not wish peace and equality; cynics who wish to spread fear, intolerance and violence in order to further their own prejudices, hatred and desire for power and wealth. But the tide is turning and they know it and that’s what makes them angry.
But there are those, from all parts of our shared planet, who live having faith in peace, love and equality and it is those people today that are celebrating the recognition of goodness.
I applaud this decision loudly.
Reading through the comments I think he was awarded it for all the wrong reasons. He’s a good speaker but thats it. He has to show results and there are none. But to a lot of people he seems to have convinced them by talking about hope and no hate, and world peace and equality when everyone gives up nuclear arms and everything is warm and fuzzy. I myself live in reality not politically correct fairytale land utopia. If he fulfills his empty words in the future then I will be the first to support him. Lets have some good old fashioned common sense and see that actions speak louder than words. Otherwise what award is Gordon Brown going to get, he’s made a lot of empty promises.
Does anyone realize how much damage this does to the prize? It’s basically like an MTV award now…. I don’t particularly like Obama, but I mean, even he must be really, really confused by this. I’m sure he knows he doesn’t deserve it.
I mean, seriously. Wishful thinking can win you this now? Will the next Miss Universe contest winner who says she hopes for world peace win this award as well?
Through Obama’s initiatives more innocent children will be murdered than at any time in the history of all mankind, because he has allowed for the USA to fund abortions worldwide. Before he took office more than 50,000,000 innocent children in America had been murdered since abortion was legalized . Here is the perspective: Arlington National Cemetery holds crosses for the our war dead that stretch as far as the eye can see. It is less than one square mile. To hold all the children murdered by abortion in America a cemetery would have to be more than 100 square miles. Peace? Murdering children can hardly be described as a peaceful act. May GOD forgive us our sins and open the eyes of the world’s heart to see this abomination for what it truly is: murder!
What a wonderful moment for USA.
I am not opposed to him getting it, just opposed to him getting it now. He hasn’t paid his dues for this one yet, and his being awarded it devalues the work of those that sincerely worked to promote peace and goodwill. It’s a blatant slap in the face to Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King Jr. and Teddy Roosevelt. Mr Obama is a great orator, but words are far from action.
What a wonderful moment for USA.
I am not opposed to him getting it, just opposed to him getting it now. He hasn’t paid his dues for this one yet, and his being awarded it devalues the work of those that sincerely worked to promote peace and goodwill. It’s a blatant slap in the face to Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King Jr. and Teddy Roosevelt. Mr Obama is a great orator, but words are far from action.
Chief Executive Officer
Overland Mission Tanzania.
Of course he should win it ‘in the moment’ . He has had the courage missing from Americans for the longest time. He represents ‘the others’. If you are not in America and seeing just who ‘the others’ then Heeched your Wheeched a Scot might say. The ones that Obama represents will not be heard here as they live in tents under the viaduct or interstate and in trailer parks and rv parks in permenancy and with family and friends and are lucky to have food on the table and this man will bravely turn around the fact that crashing a rocket on the moon is ok when your fellow citizens cant get health care. These folks don’t have cell phones or PC’s or internet and you will not get their views here. You WILL however get the dispassionate views that always seem to come from the same direction and you can bet those listen and watch Fox. As a Brit in the USA I truly despair at all this. Less WMD’s and force fields alone wins for me.
Re: Arafat
It was awarded jointly to Arafat, Peres and Rabin for their efforts in trying to bring Peace to Palestine and Israel. (unfortunately the right-wing didn’t like it and assasinated Rabin).
Obama has given hope… but not much else. Is that enough to win that award? I think it’s far too early to even decide if the hope is genuine or false, let alone judge his future actions.
President Obama is a welcome change to President Bush, but the contrast doesn’t entitle him to a noble prize. If one were to award the prize for wishing world peace, may of us qualify too. But something to cheer up for Obama after the debacle of Chcago’s bid for Olympics
I suspect that this will significantly raise the pressure on Obama to perform, and hopefully, in trying to live up to it he won’t be herded in to making bad decisions in the future. An undeniable fact is that he is the Commander in Chief of the military that is waging two wars and has more military personnel and hardware overseas than all the rest put together. Added together I think it is a good choice with baaaad timing!
For such a prestigious prize I think it is a little bit premature,perhaps later. Anu-d for someone speechless,you certainly fooled me.
The people who wrote about hate for Obama should remember that they are the minority of the people of U.S.A The majority of the people of the U.S.A won the electionand love him because he is the man who is brave enough to take up the baton for the States after the shameful mess it was left in by Bush (Republican)r
If he’s smart he’ll decline it, otherwise it will become political dynamite.
Hi
Whats the problem? We don’t give the award, do we?.
It is up to the committee to decide, and no one else.
On top of that why should he not get it? for all the negatives.
A bit of fresh blood, will do a lot of good, and all the Dusty old politicians , and leaders will get a jerk of Adrenaline, which might wake them up to reality. Of course he wont get everything done he wants to, but he deserves a lot praise for what he’s done, and what he will do. Good luck to you Mr President, keep it up, Try not to take notice of the Lobbyists, they are not there for the normal tom dick or harry, but just for the money. You can be proud of the Prayer Power that you get daily from all over the World.
Congratulations to the Peace Prize, May God be with you, and your Family
John in Germany
James from Kenya
Now what did Obama do to deserve to win this award NOTHING. His charm rhetoric probably charmed the way into the hearts of the likely inebriated Nobel judges. He has not done soothing so spectacular like broker a peace deal or stop wars. It wasn’t fair at all that is my view and in line with that if he is true to his heart he should reject it then I will respect that. Otherwise I am in shock.
It pains me to see people saying Obama has done nothing, Obama ignore them and proceed with your peace work……..
I don’t doubt that he has tried Wilson, but does he deserve it more than Morgan Tsvangirai??
President Obama is running wars in 3 countries simultaneously and heading in the direction of another. Is this what the Nobel Peace Prize would like to award?
If ‘efforts’ are what is being awarded then there are plenty of people whose ‘efforts’ and more importantly ACCOMPLISHMENTS should be recognized.
The Nobel committee with such a selection has lost ALL credibility.
Maybe the Nobel committee should have considered the drone attacks in Pakistan or the increasing of troops in Afghanistan or the failure to close Guantanamo Bay (just to name a couple of Obamas very obvious LACK of efforts towards peace). The scale of these failures would have overshadowed ANY of his so called ‘efforts.’
Just to remind you, Aama:
who killed the Pakistanis in Peshawar?
.. and the many other muslims in Afghanistan?
To fight killers and try to allow peaceful citicens to live without fear is one way of promoting peace in the world.
As to accomplishments and Peace Nobel Prices: what did Aung San Suu Kyi or the Dalai Lama actually ACHIEVE? Is there freedom in Burma or can the Tibetans freely practice their religion? This price is also intended to be a push for a cause which contributes to a more peaceful world.
As for the accomplishments of Barack Obama, is the revival of the negotiations with Russia about the reduction of nuclear weapons, the termination of the missile defense system, getting Iran to allow the IAEA to inspect their nuclear facilities no accomplishments in such a short time? Besides the international synchronisation of the efforts against the financial crisis under his leadership; a crisis which would have affected especially developing countries like yours.
It might seem a bit early to award the price to Obama, but it certainly will give his voice for peace additional value.
May be he deserves it, but I think it was awarded way too early.
The reward is for him trying to solve a possible nuclear world war peacefully.
Not yet, though I think that some day he will deserve the Nobel Peace Prize. I have been an active and enthusiastic supporter of Obama from the moment of the announcement of his candidacy for president, but I have been disappointed in his willingness to cave to entrenched commercial interests at the expense of the people who elected him. He has raised the international stature of the United States and given hope to people here and abroad that the US can be a force for good. Maybe the Nobel committee decided that their imprimatur would help him to achieve the important goals of which he is capable. I am proud of our president and I hope, and expect, that he will show himself to be worthy of the prize.
Gary, I’m sure he will, but he has to fight all those vested interests. He has to get round the (very ,loaded) checks and balances that are part of the US system, e.g. in closing Gtmo, none of the detainees were allowed to be released in the US, so he had to go cap in hand to various other conoutries to try and place these people – horrifically hypocrital, but that’s the way it is.
The prize may well have been a bit in advance of the results, but what is this other than hope, and without hope we may as well turn up our toes right now.
How can ‘good intent’ alone guarantee someone an award as prestigious as the Nobel Peace Prize?? We don’t doubt that Obama has tried, but how does one be convinced by that alone, undermining the efforts of a real man who deserved it – Morgan Tsvangirai. May be if Obama did deserve it, may be we ought to let time have the final say upon the result of his efforts. Till then, it will always be the most ‘pre-matured’ of all Nobel Peace Prizes ever!!
How long has he been in power? months, he has done nothing of any magnitude towards peace to warrant what was once an honour. he has not even proved himself yet as a great president. I do not doubt at some stage he may become the great innovator, peacemaker and president extraodanair’e but, until then please lets look for someone more worthy.
He was rewared for trying to prevent a nuclear world war bydiplomacy
Of course he does!!!!!!!!!!!!! To appreciate what Mr. Obama has done in getting elected to the high office in this country! You would have had to grow up in this country. You would have to witness first hand the vial ugliness of some white folks in this country. Ask the American Indians, ask the Latinos who lived in Texas and California, ask the Africans slaves brought he in chains packed like sardines in a can, what has he accomplish? The world! He is only just getting started! And once again Europeans, just as they have done down through history, have the guts to recolonize Black Americans for a job well done long before most whites in this country!
Friend,, he cannot deserve in just 9 months. he could have had chance after 8 years of his office.
According to Nobel’s will, the Peace Prize should be awarded “to the person who shall 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.”
are we following his will??
I believe we are, for we are bribing the most powerful man in the world to propagate peace. For once he has accepted the award he can no more go back on his intentions.
NOBEL PRIZE UNITES JEWS AND MUSLIMS
We all wonder what can ever bring the Israeli’s and Iranians together and today the Nobel Committee did it with awarding Obama the Peace Prize.
Together Israeli’s and Iranian’s are laughing together, patting each other on the back and bot are resolute in our condemnation of this stupidity.
I think president Obama deserve a honor to receive a Novel Peace Price because he save America out of Great Depression.
Obama should reject the noble peace prize, this will give him greater credibility than ever before!!
lol @ steve
For a second there, I thought you said they were going to award Obama with the title of Miss Universe! (it’s Friday, the senses are tired)
Why not- does he deserve it less than Arafat who never kept one clause of the peace treaty and was already planning his war on peace when he got the prize – the international Atomic Agency who got it for stopping the spread of nuclear weapons, and whose success is measured by Iran’s new range of long range rockets to be used for delivering that nuclear energy.
Personally I would have liked to see him get it next year for taking the entire Israeli and Palestian leadership and locking them up in Camp David until they finally make peace.
As a white American in my 70s I am often embarrassed by my fellow Americans, but I am nothing but thrilled that President Obama’s extraordinary contributions have been recognized in this way. I was so proud of my country when we elected him our President! Years of civil rights battles were finally won!
To those who say that he has not done enough to warrant the prize, think again! Who knows what the recession would have looked like if he had not done such extraordinary things to offset the mess that the business community got us into? And where would this country be if he was not leading the health care reform process? Also, it fell to him to try to right the international blunders of the last administration. Hopefully his genuine efforts and the international community’s good grace will lead to success there.
So he has this plate full of extremely volatile and difficult issues, and he is handling them with a grace that is stunning to watch! It is the first time in a very long time that I have been this proud of my President.
@ Rosemary from Massachusetts, USA
We are talking about NOBLE PEACE PRIZE not award for economics or medicine!!
I am an Obama supporter, but have to admit this award is undeserved. The Nobel committee did themselves a huge disservice as the prize will never again carry quite the impact it has in the past — and that is a shame.
it’s hardly 10 months since Obama has been in office. His winning the Peace Nobel Prize must come as a surprise. Concerning peace, the world is still in the grip of the problems he inherited from his predecessor. To be fair, former president George Bush Junior should also get an exceptional prize to be called War Nobel Prize as attribution for his making the world look more dangerous than ever.
Obama should now be under more pressure to promote peace all over the world. This prize should be a constant reminder for him for this purpose.
As it is considered that it is early for him to get this prize, time will show if he has actually deserved it through his future actions.
Unlike the other Nobel Prizes, which recognize completed scientific or literary accomplishment, the Nobel Peace Prize may be awarded to persons or organizations that are in the process of resolving a conflict or creating peace. This is a qoute from what nobel himself wrote as a qualification for consideration of the prize.
After the glorious rein of mighty warlord George W Bush anyone would seem to be a peacemaker.
Although the Americans have just started bombing the Moon, I did not know the terrorists where hiding out there!
That is awesome!! I laughed till I fell out of my chair.
Give them time.
This indicates how the world saw Bush period, and how they are ‘relieved’ to see someone actually do NOTHING (you know, nothing is better than nonsense).
How embaarrassing! I can believe they have lowered the value of the award by giving it to someone who has done nothing to deserve it! I feel sorry for the guy, he has to know how silly this is. If he doesn’t I feel sorry for him for being so arrogant. The who thing is laughable.
Salam to all
Today I’ve been shoked to read that “The Nobel Peace Prize went to Obama”..
it seems that the world is lying to itself..I want to know.. on what basis they stand to reward Obama (not anyone else) this prize??
In fact he doesn’t deserve it..of course i personally don’t have any problem with Obama getting the prize, and I would congratulate him heartfully if I only see or hear him did one thing toward world peace.
I advice the committee of this prize to go down in the street and see there are millions of people “real people” who really make simple things but these thing are great steps toward peace..and at the same time they are in need of the money of the prize.
Do you know!!Even Nouri al maliki deserves it more than Obama
😉
I do not think Mr. Obama deserves the nobel peace price. He has not done enough to deserve the award.
So weather you love him or hate him, he’s done more in 8 months to promote world peace than any other us president ever. Hes not their yet and may never get their, but that has nothing to do w/ the prize. The work hes already done in the promotion of peace absolutely qualifies him.
Obama,appears to reach out to everyone.The most important attribute any one person can make towards world peace is Diplomacy.Long before he became president of the united states Obama contributed more towards world peace than almost any other presidential candidate.If (and it is a big if), he manages to resolve some of the major middle -east conflicts Obama will go down in history as one of the leading statesmen of our generation.
For Gods sake give the guy a chance!! he is only in his first year of office ,he needs and deserves this award .I hope he has a great future,
No, he does not deserve it. He has not done anything to deserve any rewards. These people in Sweden are liberals with liberal agenda rewarding a leftist like them. It’s all politics and Hypocrisy at its most. Obama only wants to give rights to perverts and deviated people.
Bush should have been given this prize, he has done a lot of good things for humanity.
Hats off to the Nobel Committee! I was as surprised as everyone to hear the news of President Obama’s Nobel Peace Prize, and like everyone, it did cause me to stop and evaluate why he would be awarded this prize now…
Since world history and politics is unpredictable, the Nobel Peace Prize acknowledges actions that bring hope and work toward solutions… the awards are given for works in progress: Carter’s award for Middle East peace still waits for peace in that region, Mandela’s award for a new, integrated South Africa still waits for opportunity and peace for all of South Africa’s citizens, etc., etc. The fact that a Nobel Laureate’s endeavors have not yet borne full fruit is NOT the issue. Rather, one human being is selected each year as a model for hope and it is President Obama who has raised the spirits in not just one nation or one region of the world, but in the entire world. In addition, he has negotiated behind the scenes and already is bringing people together who were not speaking to each other one year ago. The hope Obama fosters would have soured by now if his rhetoric had not been supported by action… the careful, behind-the-scenes actions that are negotiating a worldwide game which in nine months’ time has opened doors and proceeded with consistency and resolve to be a model for us all.
Obama has huge potential and has the capacity to make amazing changes. This award is an encouragement to him and a reminder not to abandon those principles now that he is in office. Very few other world figures right now have this potential, and therefore the prize is appropriate. I hope Obama takes this as what it is: a call to action.
It’s also a great chance to transcend the petty politics going on in the US right now. These politics are rendering our nation mindless and hopefully we can all use this opportunity to think more globally.
Seeing some people write here that “Obama should reject the award” makes you realize how dumb people could really be!
I don’t think President Obama deserve the Nobel Peace Prize. I cannot recall that he did anything that deserve the prize. What a shame!!
There seems to be a lot of cynicism about B. Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize. Let’s be fair and be happy for a person whose message has been hope all along. True that he hasn’t yet accomplished anything concrete but did Yasser Arafat achieve anything concrete? Considering that Obama has come after the war mongering Bush it is but natural that he would be rewarded for his initiatives! And everyone was sooooo upset with Bush’s beligerence that having an American President espouse “extending ones handing” rather than “shock and awe” is refreshing.
What is a right wing looney commentator doing on WHYS on BBC World news? He wants G.W. Bush to be awarded the Prize?????
hello I am from Nepal.
I am shocked hearing this news. What has he done in these 8 months. He has done nothing compared to other great peoples. For example even Girija Koirala of my own country has done lots for my country than he has done. He has been serving the country for more than 55 years now. He has faced jail for years, headed the two major revolution in the history of the country. He has headed the SAARC(union of south asian countries). He has suffered a lot for this country and is still serving at the age of 86.
I really want to hear from the swedish foundation for the reason. He has done nothing. If anyone things he has done really a thing that has brought pleasing peace in a country in just 8 months then let me know. I don’t think even superman can do that.
Nobel Prize is given for the “Change” concept. Beginning will where it will take you. The destiny is a World Without Nuclear Arsenals. Mr. Barrack Obama should be promoted as Face of Peace. It will bring lot of change.
The value of the Nobel Peace Prize is so enhanced.
Atleast this decision of Nobel Prize will make people to know there is such an award at common man level. Let the good debate go – Yes or No.
But I stay with Mr. Barack Obama. Yes Group. THINK POSITIVE.
Who is making the money out of this? This is brilliant.
This is a terrible thing that has happened. Obama has risen straight to the top without having done anything but make promises. He’s seeing that keeping his promises will be tough to meet and promises are falling like flies. This really tarnishes and diminishes the reach and importance of the Nobel Peace Prize.
NOBEL PRIZE>…… what’s noble about it… NOTHING. Obama made a joke of the nobel prize by accepting it. I voted for him …. and now i regret it. He is not my president anymore. He is “trying” to bring peace…he has not brought it yet. He just lost my and my whole families vote …EVER.
I absolutely believe he deserves this prize. All this talk about what his has and has not done, really isn’t the issue, He inherited war and an economic crisis from the previous administration that alone will limit his resources. Look at the figures the war alone cost huge amounts of money, but it isn’t possible to simply leave, it would mean disaster for the country the war is being fought in. The economic crisis also puts restraint on anything he can do.
But look, the talk about global disarmament and the necessity of doing something about the climate, is a major! step for a US president to acknowledge. Actually pushing for reforms on the subjects is incredibly brave. Not to mention the health care system reform, which are currently appalling for a country like the US. I think he is doing a tremendous job on promoting a better world despite stark opposition.
Never has one man done so little for so few to accomplish next to nothing and yet been selected by the suddenly super-credible Norwegian committee for comedy. It sems they ran down the rabbit hole after Alidce and bit off some of that mushroom. Obama has done nothing to merit receiving this award. Perhaps he can place this award on the wall next to his ACORN certificates of appreciation.
I’m sick and tired of having people saying Obama doesn’t deserve the prize because of Afghanistan. He wasn’t the one who invaded the country to begin with. Those arguments would have been valid had the Nobel Peace Prize been given to Bush (God forbid).
I must admit that I was suprised when I read the news today but when I read the commitee’s reason for giving the prize to Obama, I got it and I agree. Does he deserve it more than other candidates, probably not but then again, I’m not the one handing the prize.
Nadia,
Marrakech, Morocco
Peace is a culture and not an action. Success is a journey and not a destination. Excellence is a habit and not an achievement. The Nobel Committee are not only right. They are wise. What Obama represents is a paradigm shift that the world has not seen for centuries. Congratulations Mr President. You deserve an even greater award.
I don’t think Obama deserves, if he did, then any global leader who did nothing for starting or provoke a war can have this award. That doesn’t matched with the spirit of Nobel Peace. I am sorry for that.
Dear WHYS,
I am shocked. I am listening to the show and I heard you say that Obama has cancelled the missile defense sheild in east europe! No, thats not true. It is just being moved somewhere else!
As for Iraq, he moved 50,000 troops out of Iraq and into Afghanistan and the void was filled with private mercenaries! He has inherited a war which he promised to end, but yet he is at war, people are dying at the hands of US and NATO troops in Afghanistan, and people being bombed by drones in Pakistan!!
How much debt has he helped lumber the American people with? and how long will it take the Americans to pay off this debt? Thats PEACE?
The Nobel peace prize – what does it actuallu mean? They have given it to war criminals for gods sake!
james, Berlin
I think next year would have been a better time for this award.
Initially it was a big surprise that the awarded Barack Obama, but after some thought I think this is a good choice. This is not the first time the Nobel committee award someone based on vision, and it is in accordance with Alfred Nobels testament. Great day for new vision and leadership. I wish Barack welcome to Oslo in December. Congrats, well deserved.
To all the naysayers, I ask one question: who in the world better deserves this award? I can’t think of anyone on the world scene who has shown leadership in bringing peace to troubled areas. Obama has stablized Iraq and set a target for withdrawal. He’s defused tensions with Russia, kept up the pressure on Iran by garnering support from more nations. He deserves it.
Stablised Iraq? are you serious? there’s nothing left in iraq, the US bombed it to smithereens.
Im not saying Obama doesnt deserve the peace prize, I’m saying he doesn’t deserve it right now.
actions speak louder than words, we’ve yet to see action…
It seems that the Nobel Prize has become as hollow as any other award.I guess its time that its credibility is now going to be questioned!World should now wake up and people should make their choice for these prestigious awards and there should be a public poll.I have grown up understanding that an award or appreciation is given when something good is done and not before you do it.Wake up citizens of the world to a new thinking if this is going to be the stepping stone for the future.
I feel this reward was well deserved. It takes a lot for a man to change the mood of the world, to take it from negative to positive. People around the globe are now slowly starting to believe and hope for change instead of seeing things just going from bad to worse and I believe that Obama should get a lot of credit for this. I cannot see any other factor these days with the swineflu and ecomonic depression, that would make the world think positive today.
Congratulations to Obama
Lots of Surprises still with the “obama factor” yet to come.
The man Obama does not deserve it but what he stands for “YES” he desreves it.
In his acceptance speech, he acknowledges this and has called all hands to be on deck to make this prize worth-the-while.
Absolutely he doesn’t deserve it !!
In Obama’s response to the announcement he says that he doesn’t deserve to be among some of the past recipients and takes it as a vote of the Nobel committee’s confidence that he will continue on the path that he has articulated. From The Huffington Post:
Members of the Norwegian Nobel Committee said their choice could be seen as an early vote of confidence in Obama intended to build global support for his policies. They lauded the change in global mood wrought by Obama’s calls for peace and cooperation, and praised his pledges to reduce the world stock of nuclear arms, ease American conflicts with Muslim nations and strengthen the U.S. role in combating climate change.
Really, if he does nothing but change the universally belligerent tone that pervaded US domestic and foreign politics prior to his presidency, he will have done the world a great service. We should do what we can to support him in enacting his initiatives.
Obama says, “I accept this award as a call to action”. That’s exactly the mind of the Nobel committee that gave him the award. The challenges we face today cannot be met by keeping score like in the game of football. It’s a new perspective, a new mindset, a new tradition that we need. Obama is doing just that.
The explanation that it will inspire Obama to work for nuclear disarmament or Middle East peace process is definitely purposeful. However, is the Nobel Peace Prize a “Lag Indicator” of achievement like other Nobel Prizes or it is a “Lead Indicator” trying to spot person of hope and induce him to do more ? Can the Nobel Peace Prize Committee set out transparently the broad criteria for this award?
What has Obama done to deserve this award?
What has he achieved in his presidency to date?
The answer to both questions is nothing.
Merely the hooplah surrounding his election was enough to make so many moist and gaze dreamily at his image. But face it, there are black presidents, not unique, statesmen who have worked harder and for longer in matters of diplomacy. Let us wait until he has actually achieved something tangible rather than mass hysteria and adoration in his home.
Are the Nobel awards now a popularity competition?
let’s face it, Obama was really elected because the choice of opposition and the groundwork Bush Jnr had laid for the Republican party. No one ever votes for someone, they only vote to get rid off.. or dislike the other choice!
Imagine all those people fihting for democracy in places like China, Zimbabwe how they feel about this? And dont tell me about Obama being African or for Africa he is not!
What has he achieved? This is a joke for sure!
I believe that Obama deserves the Prize – but a Peace??!!! Hard to say!!!
Nevertheless, as a young African I will say he needs a Prize for making a revolution of change and thus for all the people world wide to set an example to the concept of “ Yes we can” to whatever we plan to accomplish in our life and that nothing is difficult !!!
Who deserves a prize more than this kind of person then who has made a Global transformation of thinking and motivation ??!!!
Angelina Jolie deserves nobel peace prize for her efforts more than Obama. She has achieved things… Obama “intends” to ONE DAY bring peace. What a joke
How did Obama find himself in the White House in the first place? Because the world has grown weary of its old traditions. People shouldn’t crack their heads over whether or not Obama deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee has been smart enough to see beyond the surface and helped the world break one more tradition within nine months. Critics should prepare themselves for more puzzles ahead.
Interestingly the republican response to this award has been one of resentment. They do not even have the good grace to congratulate their president. We have to recognize that all wars around the world are products of resentment, all conflict, and also the current outrageous disputes over healthcare in the US are based on this very sentiment. Americans should feel proud that at last they have a leader who refuses to accept and participate in this ugly social evil. His acceptance speak earlier was humble, realistic and honest, in that he recognizes that his aspirations are also the aspirations of most people around the world – to be able to live in peace, security and free from threat of disease, and to believe that such an ideals are realisable.
Well said Peter Davies
Obama travels to Denmark to promote Chicago in its Olympic bid and is blamed by his U.S. detractors for “losing”. Today, he is being blamed for “winning”, despite the fact that Obama himself was reportedly shocked when his aide woke him early this morning to tell him the news. It is also worth noting that President Obama stated, in no uncertain terms, that while he was honored, he did not feel he deserved the prize.
Even those who are disgusted by the Nobel committee’s decision should think about how much HOPE Obama has brought to a world in very sore need of a little. I was deeply moved by the speeches he gave in Salzburg and Cairo earlier this year, and found them to be truly inspirational…I was hardly alone.
Obama has just gone to the Nobel bank and got a loan!
This is the best summary for this award to Barrack Obama. Payback – final instalment is just under 4 years or just about 8 if he re-schedules!
As much as i respect President Obama’s approach to international relations since he has come to office (i.e. his rhetoric towards North Korea, his diplomatic approach to Iran, his initiative to engage the Palestinians more), the US President is the LAST person i expected to receive this award. Wouldn’t it have been better served by giving it to someone like Morgan Tsvangirai?
I wouldn’t say this gives the Nobel prize less importance since they have given it to someone who has practically done nothing as yet, but i appreciate their forward thinking approach in that they are appreciating someone who has policies for the future.
He didn’t deserve this: WHAT IS IT THAT HE DID THAT ANY OTHER PERSON IN HIS POSITION WOULD NOT HAVE DONE, IN THE LAST 8 MONTHS
I, to be honest, don’t think President Obama deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. Not yet, at least.
In Japan, where many people are working for the nuclear-free world for such a long time at both national and grass-roots level, public opinion has been split in two.
Some are happy for the President and the prospect for success in eliminating nuclear weapons. Some are unconvinced or even embittered.
The survivors of the atomic bombs,in particular, have very complexed, mixed feelings . Because America is the country which created and dropped the atomic bombs, killing their loved ones.
But I believe that anger and hatred of the past should be defeated by the HOPE to make our future a brighter one.
I truely appreciate this year’s Nobel Peace Prize if it works as a strong push to the world to move towards the nuclear disarmament.
Even the receipient is suprised….
Thank you! Surprised No, Arafat was surprise, last surprise.
Obama received this for potential, not for action, but positive attitude, raising the worlds opinion of USA, closing prisons, nuclear wind down, policy on torture, all possibilities now, not like before.
Obama , first black- white president, kansis and kenya. Potential possibilities, symbolic in nature, hopeful in expression, and mindful in the present.
Should He get this, or not? Depends on what and how you view the prize itself, don´t forget the true story of Nobel himself! thank you.
This award is certainly premature, though, I am not much for the angry response Obamas Nobel has garnered. It is typical of small minds to condemn the accolades of others and question their legitimacy. Everybody hates a sweepstakes winner, not because they do not necessarily deserve it, but, because, it wasn’t them or someone they thought it should be, (ie. “It’s just a left wing beauty contest”).
This award sets Americas conduct bar quite high, but, with support and effort it certainly beats expecting failure.
I was surprised by the announcement that the Nobel Prize Committee chose President Obama, but it was a happy surprise. It indicates the Committee’s recognition that he is taking us in the right direction – toward international collaboration for peace and understanding. He has already opened channels for dialogue, often despite strong opposition here at home. I am so proud that our president has been awarded this prize.
If he had not accepted the award people would have respected him more-i and my family would have- by him accepting it, it clearly shows that his talking in shows like Jay Leno, Letterman has paid of. He should have got the most popular man of the year award… NOT Nobel peace prize which was given to the likes of Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa. He has accomplished nothing. he is a great orator…so was HITLER…how do we know what will obama do. He was supposed to close Guantanamo Bay..has he? he was supposed to help the tibetans..has he??/ he was supposed to get our soldiers back…has he?? he has done nothing. Someone tell me what he has done.. if he was so surprised he should have rejected and let the next person get the award. He has lost my vote. I now see what people have been talking about…i can guarantee his wife will come in Oprah next and he will come in Dr Oz’s new show….that is how much exposure he is getting on small screen…instead of working towards getting us out of recession. Shame…he has shamed US
This just makes my stomach churn.
While President Obama has made many steps in the right direction, having drastically changed course from his predecessor, he has yet to bring about any substantive, lasting change. Certainly this move will energize the diplomatic process across the world, along with President Obama’s future aims, but it remains to be seen when, if ever, he will accomplish something of the magnitude that the Nobel Peace Prize should truly represent.
President Obama is the equivalent to a black Paris Hilton, He is Famous for being Famous. He has not achieved anything on a political level. Why should he receive the Nobel Peace Prize because he has said exactly what every Miss Universe contestant states in their airhead speeches “I want world peace”. Don’t be fooled people this man is a double agent who may be found out to be no more than and Indonesian born professional speaker.
i am proud of my president, even though I agree 10% with the people who object that he has so far achieved little & I am upset about our escalating wars and military budget.
But I COMPLETELY despise the comments (including by that truly nasty man on BBC air just a minute ago) made earlier by people like Chintan quoting only right-wing talking points (eg, by professional right-winger George Will) and the staggeringly unpatriotic published remarks of the Republican National Committee, for whom everything is political and whose only effort is to denigrate and defeat the president at every turn.
So, I am 90% positive about this daring award. Maybe it will inspire Obama himself to do more for peace.
(Please also remind people that Martin Luther King and Mahatma Gandhi cannot be given the award retrospectively>)
@ martha rosler
I am appaled by the fact that you so easily pass judgement on people that have a different point of view then you and call them unpatriotic.
I am a die hard liberal, I am not right wing at all. Not all the opposition says is baseless, there is some truth and rest if fear mongering. Which of the 9 points that I have listed are LIES?
This is entirely about the noble peace prize which i don’t think he has qualified for yet. Do you realize that Mahatma Gandhi has till date never received the prize which everyone agrees he deserves. This is not a popularity contest.
Did you hear his acceptance speech, after the first 1minute 30 seconds he went off on a tangent in the 5 minute speech. It was terrible!
Unfortunately, conservatives republicans are again making a partisan issue out of something that isn’t partisan. They want to undermine Obama at every chance they get because they lost the elections in 2008 so strongly. They have to lash out because they’re backed into a corner. Get used to it, guys. Your party is dying as you cling to the fringe hoping to discover some support that isn’t there.
No he doesn’t. He hasn’t done one substantial thing to justify getting it. And yes, him getting it is an insult to Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter and others who actually put their butts on the line for peace.
The relevant Nobel committee thought it appropriate, so end of story.
g
As an individual, Obama admits that he does not deserve the Nobel Peace Prize. But as the leader of the American people and the champion of the ideals of peace and human dignity, he accepts the award. It is a victory for the American people and all the disciples of peace, love, dignity and equality around the world. What more can we ask for, but join hands with Obama and forge ahead toward a better world for all?
how much prestige has the award lost today? It has gone from an award for accomplishments to a popularity contest. WHy doesn’t the Nobel committeeee just turn it into a reality TV show while they’re at it?
Dear All,
With all due respect the news came as much of surprise but then now i understand why Norwegian politicians unto this date have felt that Mahatama Gandhi did not impact ethics of world peace and non violence. He was nominated i think atleast 6 times and was declined every time; as amatter of fact i do not think most noble peace prizes until 1960 were ever given to anybody outside european/ american heritage: bigotry may be and also i was appalled to hear on BBC that unlike Lietrature, Economics and various other categories for Noble prize there is no such committee for Peace prize, may be that explains it as well.
I sincerely feel Obama has to prove so much; he is a good orator for now.
Hi Ros
Great program.
Obama hasn’t solved the nuke problem with Iran nor the problems of civil rights violations on the ground. He won’t achieve anything without the help of Iranians, since we know what’s wrong, what we want and how to go about it!
So sorry, i disagree, war and deaths continue in Irak and Afganistan and… ultimately in Paquistán. ¿is not intended for real and actual results this prize is afford?
One blogger suggested that Obama somehow stained the prize. That is funny. Ask Chileans how they felt when Henry Kissinger got the Peace Prize! You can’t get a whole lot bloddier than Henry and stay out of jail.
On his nomination: Obama brought a great many people together through negotiation and clarity and showed that the US is back to elected Presidents. I am sure the committee was terribly relieved and hopeful.
I have woken up to see what our president is like…i think every democrat should wake up too… our president has shamed us
I believe the award is a bit premature! I supported with funds & voted for him based on his rhetoric during his campaign, and it appears everything he said, his actions have turned 180 d. He had pressured Abbas not to accept the meeting w/ UN on “Goldstone” report and has continued to cover up the violence committed by Israel against Palestine during their last war “using White Phosphorus.” Also using Palestinian women as shields. If he really wants a two state solution, the settlements must stop and stolen land by Israel must be returned and the Pres won’t support that. He continues to violate US Law that prohibits aid to countries with nuclear weapons and not members of NPT.i.e., Israel. Another situation is the land grab of Diago Garcia that required removal of all indigenous, that is now USAF & Navy controlled, even journalist are prohibited from the Island.
A single person will not take away all the problems of the world overnight. Not even a regime or a nation can do that. Instead of lazying around scrutinizing Obama, people should get busy asking themselves what they are contributing to rid the world of poverty, disease, inequality, war and the devastating effects of climate change. Obama deserves the award and more, if only for his audacity amidst the mediocrity and conformity that we have gotten so used to.
All those who think Obama does not deserve the Nobel Peace Prize, they can go ahead and create their own award and give it to who they think deserve it. This Nobel prize has gone to Obama and he absolutely deserve it. Simple
To all those who think that Obama does not deserve the Nobel Peace Prize, they can go right ahead and create their own peace award and give it to who they think deserve it. This has been won by obama and he absolutely deserve it.
Yes, President Obama deserves to win the Nobel Peace Prize with all of the
stuff that he has done for the world in his first 10 months in office…
~Dennis Junior~
I was not surprised when I saw the announcement. President Obama has achieved so much in a little time. I remember his speech during his inauguration, he called on world leaders, “Your people will judge you by what you built not what you destroyed…” President Obama has jump started the Middle East peace process, scaled down the military action in Iraq, engaged (not directly) Iran in talks. During his trip to Czech Rep, he called on the nations of the world to get rid of nuclear and other warheads. On this, he took the first step by dismantling the United States defense program in Eastern Europe. President Obama has continue to remind the Muslim world that America is not their enemy and has re-emphasized on multilaterism as against unilaterism. President Obama deserves the award.
I fear this has raised expectations of Obama to biblical levels. No person is capable of satisfying such a wide range of expectations, particularly a politician. I believe the disappointment will be equally biblical in its ramifications.
The time for speeches is over Mr. President! We need a clear win! How about a climate change bill before Copenhagen? Better one presidential term of achievement, than two of promise!
LIsten, let’s face it, there have been lots of Nobel winners who later did not later live up to their prize. This – their future track record – is not the point. He is the first black President of the US, and that is a terrific achievement! An INCREDIBLE achievement! Not only that, but he’s systematically opened up a whole range of contentious issues which previous US administrations closed down totally, whether multilaterial diplomacy or the topics, such a climate change, discussed in that framework. Putting more visibility on him will encourage him to stick to his principles, despite the dreadful hate-filled political context of US politics. Let’s give the guy some encouragement. He’s trying to work with a nation who somehow equates universal health care with national socialism.
I think this award is going to hurt Obama in the long run. The world sees him as some kind of Messiah who has come down to solve all the world problems, now he has the additional burden of living up to that ridiculous notion, which, i feel is very unfair.
He probably is as bemused as the rest of us.
First off, I really like the guy. I voted for him. I’m not thrilled with the job he’s doing, but I’m not displeased either. Its quite a mess he was handed, after all. I approve of his approach to international relations.
But a Nobel Peace prize? What has he done? Get elected president of America while having dark skin? Heck, since I voted for him despite being considerably paler than him. Shouldn’t I get a portion of the award? Where’s my 2 cents (assuming $1 million reward / ~50 million Obama voters)?
This is some sort of twisted plot to make him look ridiculous, right? Or does Sweden have an equivalent to April Fools Day in October?
This is going to confirm all the most twisted imaginings of the wingnuts who spout on about the diabolical influence of mindless Obama worshipers. If any of the Hannity, Limbaugh, Beck, O’Rielly crowd were on the fence, this should push them over it. There’ll now be even less possibility of reasoning with 30% of the US population.
It is amazing how people can claim that they know the philosophy and purpose of the Nobel Prize more than the Nobel Committee itself. Why not look for something else to talk about if you can’t be humble enough to acknowledge Obama’s genius?
I am delighted. Presdent Obama well deserves it. The spirit of the Nobel Peace prize is not just for peace already achieved or actions already accomplised but for the stand, the wish, the intention, the hope, the goal to acheive nuclear disarmament in the world, make overtures of peace with Cuba, Iran and the Muslim world in general, compassion for the Palestinians, tough Speak with certain countries he considers needs that kind of handling, all of which President Obama has done in his short tenure of office. He would have been quicker actuallly achieving things but remember his hands are tied to a great extent in doing things. His predecessor went to war, and he cannot immediately withdraw troupes, He may have to send a few more while he tries to get his voice heard, and I have no doubt he will do it if he is given half a chance. People are siting his lack of success at home in bringing health reforms. Doesn’t that prove that he is not truly free to carry out his wishes? What of all those Insurance companies that will lose by him bringing these health reforms? So aren’t his hands tied?
He should be given this honour and any more encouragement that can be given to him to make him stronger and more able ot wield the powers of his office. I know people will laugh at me. But just wait! Time will tell.
A shame…why is the Nobel prize rewarding popularity…he only got the Nobel prize because he came after Bush and because everybody was so fed up with american politics under Bush…why not reward persons who have achieved something in a day-to-day work for peace. If we really want to do something for peace, we ought to award less known people who do a lot for peace, to let us know what they’re doing and what they achieved… This is is ridiculous and is not doing any good to peace.
Big’ead~
It would make no difference if he declined the award. In fact, it would make no difference if he were to suddenly adopt the entire right wing conservative agenda – they hate him more for simply being elected than for any policy or position he has taken.
President Obama has shown guts from day one at the White House. He has changed the dynamics of world diplomacy and brought America right back into the driving seat. The respect for America has been restored and other nations are now looking to America for real leadership. America lost its way under the Bush Presidency by its unilateral decisions. President Obama has tried to reach out to Iran,North Korea to give them the opportunities to change their evil ways. Rather than hectoring to them he is trying to convince them to come out of their isolation and discuss their differences openly and with transparency. His efforts and those of his Secretary of State are bearing fruit. These new policies and the new negotiating climate are instrumental for the new optimism.
@Godfrey : “According to Nobel’s will, the Peace Prize is to go to whoever “shall 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”. ..Not exactly what has been achieved until now by Obama up to now…
I think Obama’s Nobel Peace Prize win is a win for diplomacy. After 8 years of the aggressive politics of the Bush regime, Obama’s repudiation of the Bush doctrine signals a return to diplomacy for the US and is, as Mr. Obama put it, a “call to action”. It is a signal to the world to use their words, as opposed to their fists.
I applaud the bravery and imagination of the Nobel Committee and hope this signals a return to civility and constructive diplomacy in the forum of world politics.
Congratulations, Mr. Obama…congratulations, world.
Uh, the Missile shield is just going to be on ships instead of in Poland and the Czech republic. He’s not cancelling it, he’s moving it to a ship based system. In reality, this award was nothing more than a popularity contest. The nobel committee loves him.. They have greatly damaged the prestige of the award.
Obama has taken some initiatives that could foster peace. However, these are only in the interests of United States. The reconciliation with nations that were attacked by America has to follow, America has to reduce their nuclear weapons along with Russia. No one can demand to destroy others weapons whether they be nuclear or of any kind and preserve his own. Obama has only realized that America cannot have the role of being superior power. Therefore, he doesn’t deserve it. It should be given to those who have substantially contributed and established peace and unity.
Divya, Roma
I guess if ‘NOT’ being George W. Bush is enough to get the most powerful civilian position in the world: President of the United States, then why not the Nobel Peace Prize.
Very Nearly ridiculous!
Prosperity, love, friendship? The US has the highest unemployment rate since 1982. The unemployment rate is 9.8% and even he admits it will go over 10%. That is prosperity? Enough with the cheerleading for Obama. Be objective. What has he done to win the Nobel peace prize?
I agree with Godfrey from Cameroon, well said!
Obama has already accomplished something incredibly important. He is trying to change direction for the US and the world. .No easy task for a country of 300 000 000 and he can’t pull out of Iraq and Afghanistan overnight. Yes he is being awarded it partially for his vision, but in the current context of things his vision is radical. Thank God for leaders like him. The cynical naysayers will always find fault.
In short the Nobel committee realized he will spend his whole life working intensely to improve the world. Might as well give it sooner than later. He needs all the support he can get, especially considering the ugliness of the rascist backlash againat him in the US.
President Obama has done something. His words have relieved fear and has changed the attitude of the entire world. This is doing something. This is why they gave him this prize. Reasonable and kind words deserve more credit in this world, not less. Attitudes have already been changed, so this prize is not premature nor devalued.
The President doesn’t take oders from any officer in the military. HE gives the orders. Generals can make requests and run the day to day operations, well the NCOs do that, but the President makes the big decisions, which is not always a good thing.
He doesn’t deserve it because he hasn’t accomplished ANYTHING yet. Maybe if he follows through with world wide nuclear disarmament, maybe if middle east peace breaks out, then definetely, he should be awards the prize. But now? I will never look at the award the same again.
Sadat made peace with Israel, and it was not about Palestinians. It was a peace deal between Egypt and Israel, and that’s why Sadat/Begin were awarded it. Israel/Egypt had fought many wars, so I would think it makes sense to give them the award.
Roz, you’ve misspoken. You cited “hundreds of thousands” of protesters at the “tea-party” in Washington DC. You have been misinformed. The photo which was widely circulated after the event to “prove” large numbers of attendees has been debunked. It is actually a photo from a different event which took place many years ago. There were certainly a lot of people there, in fact TENS of thousands; but there were definitely not “hundreds of thousands” as you said on the air. Please don’t perpetuate this falsehood.
See PolitiFact:
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/sep/14/blog-posting/blogger-claim-photo-shows-millions-tea-party-prote/
While this award may be the biggest surprise of the year, I believe it’s wonderful news. President Obama brings much to the table with his multi-cultural upbringing to start to mend the very broken relationships around the globe with the USA. This will hopefully trickle down into a more peaceful world.
I am a dyed-in-the-wool liberal Democrat and I laughed when I heard this news. This is an odd and ill-timed decision. Four years down the road, maybe. Now, no way. I worry this will further distract our nation from the very important work that needs doing here and overseas.
Honestly, giving Obama this award would be like giving Chamberlain the award even before he said “peace for our time” holding up the treaty giving the Germans the Sudetenland.
I am not outraged that he won nor am i thrilled. When i heard the news i was shocked! I thought the award was given out based on actions carried out by a person. To give it based on intended action is changing the whole idea of the prize. Personally i think he may deserve it in the future but not at this point.What i also find interesting is that so far all the past winners who have spoken out have all congratulated Mr.Obama.
As a Swiss citizen, I applaud President Obama’s being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. As an American citizen, I deplore the sour grapes the Republican Party has already showered like vinegar on President Obama.
President Obama’s message of hope has swept across the world like a healing tsunami. The Republican Party has joined the Taliban in rejecting that message of hope. These backward-looking organizations have much in common. By honoring President Obama, the Nobel Committee has emphasized his message of hope in the future at the expense of those whose eyes, hearts and minds are looking only backwards.
The swedish foundation has made fool of themselves. Someone said that this award is gonna motivate him even more. Do you really thing the best peace award is just to motivate a person?? FUNNY. LAUGHABLE.
As much as I support President Obama, I don’t feel he should have received this prize. In my opinion, this is a political statement by the Committee, a comment about the former Administration.
Having said that, I think the change in tone presented by the Obama administration is welcome domestically and internationally. Eventually, it will go a long way in helping international relations.
Having refused to denounce Iranian election fraud and subsequent violence, this prize winner went on to encourage the violent rhetoric of Zeleya. In his own county, he propses to accept debate, but then denouces what he terms as “phony arguments and petty politics,” that which he has never substantively refuted.
After less than 10 months in office as president of the United States and a very, very short history of involvement in few causes other than personal political advancement, I think this award is not deserved. For other recipients the award was the result of many years of arduous efforts and, more importantly, substantial results. Consequently, I agree with the president himself that he does not deserve to be considered on par with other recipients who have in some way changed the world.
The Nobel Committee seems to have change its criteria from actual contributions to peace to who appears to be saying the right things, in other words what they think one should say, about peace. I think it is a significant milestone that my country elected an African American to be president. However, that alone is far from enough in my opinion to justify this award. So far Mr. Obama has made only the first small, tentative contribution to world peace. The Nobel Committee now appears to be far more political than respectful of true achievement for the Peace Prize, particularly when compared to the extremely rigorous standard of fundamental importance over a very long time for the other prizes.
It’s amazing how many people are up in arms about Obama getting the award. How many of them have actually taken the time to read Alfred Nobel’s will which sets the criteria for the award of the prize.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee always starts with Alfred Nobel’s will where he states that the Peace Prize should go to the person “who shall 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.” So it’s not about acutally achieving something, it’s about having the vision and the political and personal will to achieve a peaceful world. Does Obama fit this criteria – yes – he has extended a hand of friendship to enemies and attempted to heal the breach between arguably the most powerful country in the world and the rest of the world caused by George Bush. Even if he fails, (like Arafat and Rabin did over the Israeli – Palestinian conflict) this will not detract from the vision. Martin Luther King never achieved the promised land in his lifetime – does that mean he wasn’t deserving of the peace prize?
In this case the prize is being used pre emptively, to reward Obama for his ‘efforts’. His administration has not yet made any progress in ending the Arab-Israeli confict, bringing peace to Iraq or Afghanistan, dealing with Iranian or North Korean nuclear disarmament, ending the suffering in Darfur or any other conflict zone. He has used the right language about multilateralism in talking about these issues, but why give the prize to him before the results are in?????? Talk is cheap and this award should be for accomplishments.
After 8 years of Bush and the diagnosis of my Mom as having Alzheimer’s, I was kind of depressed. Obama has made me feel better about things in general. So is a Nobel for Medicine next? Perhaps they can tweak the Chemistry prize to include “human chemistry”, and he can be awarded another.
No, he certainly does not and he shouldn’t accept the price. Although I have high hopes for president Obama, he hasn’t achieved anything in particular for peace yet. Furthermore, it should be something outside of what can be expected of his position as president of the USA.
This prize disqualifies the Nobel Peace Prize itself but also denigrates Barak Obama. Like the argument of positive discrimination. I think he would like to earn his marks (and hope he will).
Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
As an American, I am quite shocked that the Nobel committee has such low standards for its most coveted prize. Honestly, what has President Obama done to deserve this honour? He basically has just talked about nuclear disarmament and international diplomacy and has done next to nothing to deserve the Nobel Peace Prize. Anybody can talk about these issues. The fact that he is not George W. Bush is probably the only reason why he won this prize.
The United States is the largest imperial power in the history of humankind. We have military bases across the world. Yet, the Nobel PEACE Prize is going to the Commander-in-Chief of the global police. Quite frankly, this is an INSULT to peace.
Better to insult peace and stop war than praise peace and propagate war.
This is classic global politics! Obama himself knows that he doesn’t deserve it and he admitted it. What this award has done is put political pressure on Obama from the European Union. I think its a cruel political move and could either hurt him or turn him into hopefully the most important global figure in world history.
Despite his best intentions and effort, if it turns out that Obama is unsuccessful living upto the expectations that this prize puts on him, will he have to return it?
Will future prizes in all areas be awarded on the criteria of encouragement — in that case will the prize committees be able to evaluate all the potential nominations?
A lot of right wingers did not agree when Dr. Martin Luther King won, either. That’s because the cross-dresser in the FBI put out bogus information that the civil rights movement was communist backed and he was out to over throw the union because he wanted integration, voting rights, etc. He received a lot of hatred and disagreement on his win.
The influence of Obama on the world at large began not just this January, but long before. He started a movement and inspired people to believe that fundamental personal and social value changes to promote & sustain peace is possible. Of course, one person cannot change the world. But, he & the 2008 election helped people think that if people wants peace and collectively work towards it, it’s possible. Maybe, his books also deserve writers’ awards. They were written well, and revealed his soul before his presidency and that is courageous.
How pathetic to give the nominee to Obama. He is a false peace maker. Disgrace for such a prestige award!
From San Francisco (listening on KALW)–
Yes, President Obama deserves this prize.
The Nobel Peace Prize committee has an agenda – to promote world peace – and the honor this prize carries will give President Obama a greater ability to bring peace. Honoring President Obama now advances these efforts sooner than later.
Sir,
The Nobel for him is not retrospective, it is a work program.
Good luck now !
Those who would say Obama has done nothing to deserve this prize do not recognize the importance of good leadership. The thing that Obama has done has been to establish an environment of change for peace not only in politics, but also with his stance for a more responsible, green world in environmentalism. Leadership can not do everything, one person is barely significant, but giving opportunity to positive change is what I think Obama has done for America. Now to see if he can stand up to the politics of politics as usual in both America and the world; do we have the guts to change?
While I like the reasons given for the award going to Mr. Obama, other Nobel prizes (for Medicine, Chemistry, etc) are awarded years, sometimes decades, after the laureates’ contributions are finally understood by peers in their fields. It makes little sense to award the prize to someone based on the prospects of good results.
I believe President Obama does deserve the Nobel Peace Prize because he brought hope to not only the United States but the World. To know the Evil Empire of George Bush was finally at an end caused a swell of hope and energy heard around the world. We all hope that Mr. Obama can lead the world into peace and prosperity.
On another note it’s interesting to observe that only Democratic Presidents have received the Nobel prize – not one Republican.
Don – Cape Coral FL
Love your show Ross
Opps
Teddy Roosevelt was a Republican until he changed parties but that was 1908.
I agree with the Nobel Committee about supporting his ideas and I hope that Obama grows into fully deserving the honor by the end of his Presidency.
I am surprised at the responses from all the right wing “haters” who are so much against supporting the ideas of Peace and International Diplomacy.
@ C.Most
The nobel prize isn’t about diversity or multiculturalism.
The true test of a man is not only what he does but what does not do. Obama’s ascendancy to the US presidency could have resulted in a more bellicose America and a more unstable world but Obama has chosen the path of peace. The world promises to be more peaceful with Obama as US president and even more with the Nobel peace award.
I think this is another indication that the Nobel Peace Prize should be abolished, since it has become way too political and it causes only more controversies which could potentially fuel more conflicts. Let us not forget that the peace of the world cannot be maintained by one man regardless of how visionary he/she may be. World peace requires the involvement of many ordinary but extraordinary people who are making their efforts namelessly around the world. So, when the prize rests on only one individual, it can serve only political purposes.
He is not working on world peace, per se. He is taking one step at a time and that begins with us. Not you. Not the world. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. did not win for ‘world’ civil rights. The one won by Anwar Sadat of Egypt and Menachem Begin of Israel, was not for world peace. It was between two nations and for which Sadat was assassinated. spare me the ‘world’ view. take one or two contenders at a time and work outwards.
I guess if ‘NOT’ being George W. Bush is enough to get the most powerful civilian position in the world: President of the United States, then why not the Nobel Peace Prize.
Very Nearly ridiculous!
The “Not George Bush” ideology may have been present in the elections of 2000, and those of 2004, but the election of 2008 was fundamentally different. The entire political framework in the United States of America was re-defined by Obama’s campaign, and the collaborative potential of the US has come one step closer to reality, a feat that would amplify its potential to leverage its power for good. George W Bush’s presidency created one of the most decisive political climate in US history, and the idea that his fear mongering, paralyzing politics, and international foot-stamping warrants a Nobel Peace Prize is wholly offensive. There are champions a many in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and George W Bush does no fall at the top of that stack either.
Exactly…maybe half of the award should go to George W. Bush. Without eight years of Bush, there would be no award for Obama…..
A lot of people on both sides here wouldn’t dispute that the Dalai Lama deserved the prize, but if it’s to be awarded for achievements or accomplishments only you have to ask, “What did he actually DO besides travel and talk?”
I am a passionate supporter of Barack Obama. However, I must admit that Obama has not accomplished enough to warrant this prize, nor are his words worth the prize. I support his goals, and would support this award if given four or eight years from now.
I think this prize will bring Obama’s shortcomings to light, and will result in massive negative feedback here in the states.
He get’s negative feed back for everything he does, already. Breathing. Wrong dog choice. Name. Birth place. Wife. Has an education and a brain. They haven’t started on the children, I’m just waiting. He is equated with animals. Now, they have something new to gnash teeth, put on sack cloth for. Boo, Hoo!!!! Nothing would surprise me, at all. The infantile mentality that runs rampant is nauseating.
He should refuse this award. He should make a statement that if peace actually comes then he should take it. I have intenstions of cureing cancer but I have not should I get the nobel prize. How about the President of Isreal they recieved 9000 missels attacks. If that happened to us I would want that enemy to be destoryed.
Perhaps the reason Obama got the Peace Prize is that he beat John McCain in the race for US President.
One can only conclude the Nobel Prize Committee has gone off its rocker, or else they’re just trying to encourage Obama in the right direction. Obama’s first act in office was to order a drone attack which killed innocent civilians. He’s now trying to decide now whether to send 40,000 new troops to Afghanistan to continue America’s second ongoing immoral, unjust, illegal, and unnecessary war, or ‘only’ 10,000. Whether to do ‘counterterror’ or ‘counterinsurgency’. How many thousands of innocent civilians has he killed so far in Iraq and Afghanistan? He forced a totally corrupt election process on the Afghan people and seems content to accept the outcome as legitimate. Almost nothing has substantively changed policy wise since the end of the Bush administration. The killing goes on, the troops continue to be exhausted and despairing from multiple delployments. Obama’s got time to meet with the lowest dictators and thugs but snubs the most peaceful man in the world, the Dalai Lama, when he comes to Washington. And this guy, Obama, is supposed to somehow merit the Nobel Peace Prize? The Dalai Lama is the one who really deserves the Prize. The Prize and the Nobel Committee will never mean the same thing to me again. What a supreme joke on humanity!
Oh for gosh sakes, the only award that Bush has earned is an indictment and trial at the ICC for War Crimes against the people of Iraq.
Does Obama deserve the Nobel Peace Prize? No. But then neither did Carter. The selection of Obama speaks volumes about the dilution of the value of the credential “Nobel Peace Prize Winner. It is obvious to me that “liberal progessives” insist on being judged by their stated intentions and campaign promises rather agree to be measured by the results of their actions. I would submit the names of the heads of Mercy Corps International or International Medical Teams, or Doctors without Borders etc. as far more qualified persons with measurable accomplishments rather than than reward symbolism over substance.
Yours.
Greg
So how does a Nobel Peace Prize recipient order another 40 000 troops into combat? The merits and de-merits of which were argued on a previous blog. So, me thinks General McCystal has his answer. This award is going to be a burden to President Obama.
At least Ahadminejad didn’t get it, so this is better than what could have happened. So Mr. Ahadminejad, if you lighten up on your calls to wipe out Israel and stop denying the holocaust, you might actually win it if you start using the word hope a lot.
A bit premature but it will enormously strenghten his hand in dealing with the Palestinian /Isreali problem as well as his Iran negotiations He has reset the US course from confrontation to open dialoque with a tone that now will be difficult for the hard liners ,war hawks ,to oppose.It will also put severe pressure on Obama to produce results ,and not welch on his campaign promises to be a fair and reasonable arbiter of conflicts which have been fueled by US foreign policies. Blessed are the peace makers for they are the children of God.I wish luck.
The actions he was given the award for are the relief of tensions or in other words, the deflection of tensions, that would have arisen if any of the other US presidential candidates won given the trajectories at the time. He has succeeded in improving the following relations away from more violent outcomes: Palestine-Israel, US-Iran, and US-Venezuela.
If there was only a Nobel Prize for clearing brush.
While I think it is early for Barack Obama to be getting the Prize, it is not as if he only started working for peace on his inauguration. He worked for peace at home in his work in the slums of Chicago; as a Senator he worked for peace and voted against the Iraq war. He has been campaigning for global understanding throughout his entire national career. As a candidate for about two years before being elected, he said he would work for reconciliation among nations and religions. He is doing the best he can, now as President, to fulfill those promises, but he is not the “most powerful man in the world” – at home he has Congress to contend with and world wide other nations go their own way despite appeals by US presidents.
Any number of Pieace Prize winners did not actually achieve their goals. Bertha von Sutter, the originator of the Nobel Peace Prize idea, had the goal to end all wars – she was not successful, but she tried and that is what the Prize is being given for, for trying to advance peace.
It’s truly sad to hear how much people think Obama is some kind of God, and that he’s all powerful, and is the salvation for the world. When WHYS came to Washington for Obama’s inauguration, they asked whether people had unrealistic expectations of him. This is the answer to their question.
At least the world recognizes that the United States has a President we can look up to. He is an exceptional person and has provided hope that the country and the world can become a better place After 8 years of a disastrous administration that tried to destroy our values and beliefs, we finally are returning to the values that made the United States a place everyone in the world admired. This is a perfect way to show the stature and capability of our truly unique and gifted President. I can finally be proud again to be an American!
No matter if our president has been democrat or replublican – I have always been proud to be a US american.
The moment Senator Obama won the Iowa caucuses I knew he could win the presidency. And my first and strongest line of debate became ‘On the day he takes the oath the wretched world-view of our country will be halfway back to where it once was.’ It happened. One of his first moves was to speak in Egypt opening the American hand to the Arabic and Muslim worlds. He has reversed the gestalt of the Bush administration line item by item and continues to do so. Both domestically and globally. We all feel his hope, and the world is rising to that ‘challenge’… for eight years we in the US have been silenced under the closest thing we have ever had to a dictatorship — in that we were no longer allowed to protest the White House and lost so many of our famous and powerful rights — and can once again speak our minds, even those who oppose Obama. To say he has done nothing is outrageous; it is less tangible to be sure but it is very very real around the world to those who understand what he has done to create change and a new more peaceful outlook.
In actuality, it should have been given to the American people and accepted by him on our behalf… we reversed the Bush fiasco the moment we elected Obama, we are the ones who took action to change the gestalt… and we in turn would give it to our inspiration leader.
Mr. Obama deserves this prize for changing the world environment towards understanding and communication. The Bush administration did much damage to European relations as well as Mid Eastern relations, and even Asian relations. I think this is a vote of confidence for a new hope and a deft hand in this world. I hope conservative Americans can begin to understand the value of dialogue, the value of the U.N., and respect for other nations.
I am listening to the show and I am wondering something. Why is the US expected to fix the world’s problems? We have enough to work on here.
I think an important fact has been missed here. Just a MLK Jr. was given the award for his achievement in racial relationships and his work in the Civil Rights Movement, President Obama has achieved great strides in that area. He is the first person of African descent to have been elected president of the United States. He was able to overcome centuries of racial discrimination and misunderstanding and unite a very racially divided country and win the presidency. I personally belive this fact can not be overlooked in his consideration towards the prize.
For this and other reasons, he most definitely deserved the award.
I think it is arrogant for an American to tell the rest of the world to take responsibility for itself. As if no one is responsible but America.
I ask that American Conservatives stop fighting against Obama and his ideas of Peace and International Diplomacy and start supporting him and the Nobel Committee in achieving these goals.
I believe the Nobel Prize for Peace for Obama is justified. The President’s brings hope to the people of the world – hope for peace among races, hope for a more equitable sharing of economic production, hope for dialogue among warring people, hope for a more humane approach to governing and much more. As someone who grew up in America and watched the disintegration of our values over many decades, I am finally able to feel proud of my country again. Hope is nothing to sneer at in a world where greed, fear, disease, poverty, and war have become the norm.
A big congratulations to my President, Barack Obama on being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize! I am truly delighted as I awoke to the announcement early this morning while listening to BBC World News here in Portland, Oregon.
His efforts on re-establishing the the U.S. relations with the international community, through, engagement, dialogue, mediation and by placing emphasis on diplomacy are evident in your style of leadership and I believe foreign leaders and the international community truly recognize this. Congratulations!
The Noble Peace Prize committee, has nominated President Obama today based on future aspirations, I think his charismatic style of leadership has amplified a renewed hope and emphasis for the entire international community to aspire to. Barack Obama’s foreign policy efforts are improving future relations on a global spectrum, particularly abroad and with the Muslim community, this has greatly inspired his Nobel Peace Prize award today.
One only needs to look at the fact of how the U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. (Susan Rice) is a cabinet level position and how President Obama has personally led a initiative by chairing the general assembly on “nuclear arms reductions”. An example for all nations to follow.
I know much, much work is needed on foreign policy, but by eliminating the need for the strategic anti-missile defense in Eastern Europe, this alone has dramatically improved a future cooperation with the Russians.
His future tasks and decisions on Foreign Policy, for example; the Palestinian 2 state solution, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran and Iraq will truly be monumental challanges in the future!
I would never be allowed a past of that length, but who cares, in Italian – forza Obama!
President Obama has ceased projects of the previous administration to create NEW nuclear weapons including the “Bunker Buster”, has re-invigorated a real conversation for nuclear threat reduction, ratification of the CTBT to secure loose nuclear material, he initated and chaired the first ever special session of the UN Security Council on nuclear security and arms control.
Peace making is never done, never accomplished – peace is an ongoing process of forward (and backward) motion. No one would argue that Ghandi did not deserve the Nobel based on the fact that permanent peace was not accomplished. The fact that Obama won the Nobel demonstrates how effective he has been in reaching out to the world and why he deserves the award. The changes ALREADY made to the Nuclear reality is paradigm altering.
and OF COURSE Ghandi should have gotten the prize!
Some jest has been made that a beauty contestants. What about Nazanin Afshin-Jam? I think Changarai is a better suggestion, but with Obama, the bar has been set quite low.
For the love of God, inspiring people is not what they base this award on. If that’s the case, JFK should have won the Nobel prize for his inuaguration speech where he said “ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country” or Reagan telling Gorbachev to “tear down this wall!”
I’m certainly an Obama supporter but I do think that giving him the Nobel Peace Prize was a bit premature. But Bush? Bush? OK, maybe in an alternate universe where Hitler, Mussolini and Stalin won it too.
Obama does give us hope. He has engaged the U.S. in a way that has not been done for far too long. Obama seems to have brought the U.S. into the fold as a participant rather than a dictator. If he is unsuccessful I suspect it will be because ideological talk radio hosts and others in this country sabotage him for some sort of personal or political gain. Not for lack of effort.
Baffling at first, but upon further digging perhaps very appropriate.
As an American, it never would have occurred to me to award this to Obama now. But then, I already got to vote for him and for the triumph of Hope over Fear. When I listen to International comments regarding the Nobel award, however, I hear many voices excited about this recognition of the type of politics and world Obama has promoted and inspired.
In terms of the Nobel committee’s thinking, I think there are some very compelling reasons to vote Obama. When Isreal and Palestine are at the negotiating table, what reason do they have to come to agreement and make concessions NOW versus at any other point in history? Why bow to Obama as peace broker and not Carter, Clinton, etc? The Nobel gives Obama increased responsibility and increased legitimacy as representing broader interests than simply the short-term goals of American politics.
I am worried that support for Obama has now become a sick cult of personality.
He has done nothing, he may very well accomplish things, but until he does he should not get this award.
Well, at least no one has thrown a shoe at him.
… yet.
Once the honeymoon of Obama’s naivety and appeasment with the “muslim world” is over we’ll see.
So I wonder if the nobel prize for science will go to whomever invented the teleprompter?
No The one who created Spell Check. The one the former president never used. Thesaurus on line? Dictionary on line? yep, that’s it, Noah Webster. All at his, never used, fingertips.
Every president of the United States, just by the power and influence of the position, has the ‘potential’ to do good and promote peace in the world. Potential is not what the Nobel Peace Prize is about.
I am so proud of the Norwegian Nobel Committee for recognizing our President’s efforts for uniting this nation. Despite whatever issues you may have with President Obama, the Nobel Peace Committee has seen pass ill judgements of a man doing his job. We should be proud of him and all of his efforts to repair a nation that has been suffering for so long. I love President Barack Obama, and I’m so proud of yet another accomplishment he has made!
It seems to me that many of those reacting against the choice of Obama are missing the point of the Nobel Peace Prize. Unlike the other Nobel prizes, this one has never been intended as a recognition of past accomplishments. It’s a frankly political prize, which Alfred Nobel meant to go to a person or persons with the *potential* to advance the cause of world peace. In that context, the selection of Obama makes perfect sense as encouragement for the US to abandon recent practices of aggression and isolationism in favor of rejoining the world community.
Reenagement with Iran, N. korea, Withdraw from Iraq, acknowledging Russia’s concerns re: missile shield are all great accomplishements!! His attempt to restart the ME peace process is also a huge goal which has bedeviled the world since 1948.
More importantly, awarding the Prize to Obama is symbolic of the United States reengaging with the World after a long period of unilateralism. If the President Obama is able to achieve half of what he wants to do, which the Republicans keep blocking, it will be well deserved. We’re Back and want to be good neighbors with the rest of the world!
Side Note: The Neo-con Dan from MD suggestion that President Bush receive the prize is ludicrous and emblematic of what is wrong with the Republicans at this point and why that party is in a complete shambles. They can only obstruct and throw stones.
Just yesterday this program discussed views of racial relations in the United States as well as around the rest of the world. Many people remarked on the fact that there are still great racial tensions in the United States. I’d like to point out that in this country, we have had intense, violent race riots as recent as the 1990’s.
Does no one think that a black man peacefully being elected to the office of President of the United States of America equates to a great achievement of peace? Does this not set a positive example for the rest of the world?
Katy
Oregon, U.S.A.
Boy, the Conservatives are showing their true colors aren’t they?
They are against Peace and Diplomacy in the world.
This is not a Conservative issue. It is an issue of someone with so little experience and so little time in office deserving such prestigious award. We all can “talk” about peace and diplomacy until the cows come home but lets see some accomplishments before dishing out the awards.
Yes, I think President Barack Obama deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. He has inspired hope and community-collaboration around the world in an extraordinary way that few others ever have. Inspiration evolves to action to transformation to the possibility of World Peace.
The Nobel Peace Prize committee, I am certain, did not make their decision frivolously. They decided wisely. I say bravo to the Nobel committee and congratulations to Barack Obama (and to Obama’s exceptional family).
Well, stated. i tried but your comments were wonderful. i’m lower down the list and am also from Oregon. i was listening to all the people that could not support their reasons why they thought he deserved it and the naysayers. i decided i had to try anyway. Thank you for your representation of us.
I take issue with the tone of this so-called debate. When Ros supports every statement against Obama receiving the award, while at the same time countering / criticizing the issues raised by people supporting the award one can not describe this as a legitimate debate. How biased is this broadcast!
Let’s have a truly objective discussion of this issue – not have the media lead us to their point of view!
I think Gary Bettman should have been nominated for his work in reducing fisticuffs in the great sport of hockey.
President Obama has ceased projects of the previous administration to create NEW nuclear weapons including the “Bunker Buster”, has re-invigorated a real conversation for nuclear threat reduction, ratification of the CTBT to secure loose nuclear material, he initated and chaired the first ever special session of the UN Security Council on nuclear security and arms control.
Peace making is never done, never accomplished – peace is an ongoing process of forward (and backward) motion. No one would argue that King, Tutu, Dahlai Lama, etc., did not deserve the Nobel based on the fact that permanent peace was not accomplished. The fact that Obama won the Nobel demonstrates how effective he has been in reaching out to the world and why he deserves the award. The changes ALREADY made to the Nuclear reality is paradigm altering.
Early in the October 9 show, Ros stated that “hundreds of thousands” of people were at the Tea Party protest in Washington, DC.in September. As an international journalist, he should certainly have been aware that the teabaggers published a bogus photo and bogus numbers on the web, which were eagerly picked up by the right-wing media. The photo was from the “Million Man March” in the mid-1990s, where there were indeed hundreds of thousands of people. This deception was called out by astute observers and publicized on the web for several days. Of course, the damage had been done, and not nearly as many people saw the retraction as saw the original, false story. But Ros should have known and not repeated the false story.
Is Obama’s award of the Nobel Prize premature?… Maybe… But maybe it’s also a high profile way to congratulate him on his fresh brand of diplomacy, and encourage him to continue the process in opposition to the wrong-headed opinions of isolationists.
If you give someone an award, say twenty years after the fact, what then does that award accomplish, other than symbolically patting a now likely-aged retired person on the back? This award will make many revisit Obama’s diplomatic efforts to date, and some of those people may learn to see his strategy in a more optimistic light, and become inspired to contribute what they can themselves to the effort… Granted, some will only fume and ruminate on their disapproval.
I think a lot of what President Obama has done has been more subtle and forgotten. He has taken the initiative in international meetings to mediate in order to keep the peace and to help calm down others during international discussions. He has an unbelievably well-rounded capture of all that is going on in the world and at home and in all these he promotes the peace, welfare and rights of all.
He has made too many overtures to grant the conservatives a voice and equal opportunities to present their ideas, all to his own detriment and he rarely speaks to the astonishing ideas of the media naysayers and the mean-spirited. He rises above and keeps his eye on the issues at hand.
Wheni was young, there was no “international” in my narrow world except maybe Russia because we were in the cold war. Raising my children i tried to promote a broader awareness of cultures and countriesof world and their issues.
Obama brings this to all of us in the US now. There has been a long time of arrogance and entitlement that has been a strong presence in this country for many years. He brings a breath of fresh internationalism to all whether they want it or not.
Absolutely, but not for the reason you may think. What most miss is he is the first Black President of the USA. This is no small feat. As a blues musician, I’ve been following a Black man for 20 years. The majority of non-Black persons in the USA will most likely not fit into that category. Obama overcame prejudice, a vicious campaign, a tyrant of a predecessor, and much more to become leader of the free world. That in itself is worthy of the prize, though he does offer hope to the world in a more congenial approach to other countries as opposed to his predecessor as an added benefit! It is a reward most definitely earned :>)
While Obama may not have done much to win the Peace Prize, I think the Nominator s recognize the role that the US’s government can play in resolving the the crisis the world faces. Obama has set a different path from his immediate predecessor. In closing down guantamo bay and in making public the CIA secret files concerning interrogation, among other things, Obama has revealed the nature of his presidency. At the same time Obama recognizes the limitation of the US’s Power. He has prefered the path of dialogue as opposed to direct confrontation. this award is an encouragment and a signal of the kind of politics that he world desires.
Only to results, Mr. Obamás peacemaker achievements are so far ahead yet.
The once respected Nobel Committee has ridiculed itself by awarding such a high distinction for empty words and indecision. Obama has been talking and talking for the last nine months without any concrete decision, not the slightest success.
I think those clever people at Nobel committee are disgracing the spirit of Nobel. There should be replacement s of members.
It seems as though the Nobel committee decided to use the prize for a different purpose than usual. I believe they’re trying to influence the U.S. president to live up to his own rhetoric. Interesting, and I should remind those who seem to think that the Nobel committee has somehow broken the rules by not simply basing this on past accomplishments that the Nobel committee can do whatever it wants. They’re not bound by any specific criteria except for what they deem important.
My feeling is that if people think that Pres. Obama is not deserving of this award, that those people can start their own award-giving, peace-promoting organization and give their prize to someone else. In the case of the Nobel prize, it is what it is.
Somehow I knew you were going to ask this question.
Most responders on National Public Radio say it’s too soon to recognize him for a Nobel, a sentiment I agree with, though most comments swing 50/50 both ways.
But I understand that Oslo is recognizing a complete sea change in the way the US is conducting foreign policy — so are showing their approval by awarding it now.
What most people fail to realize is how completely belligerant our neocons were under the Bush administration. They once even floated the idea of military engagement with Iran. Let’s see, the last one to prosecute a three-front war was Adolph Hitler, and we can see all the good it did him. (The Bush Doctrine seemed to be ‘Why meet your enemies with 5 diplomats, when 20 thousand infantry will do.’)
Obama has taken non-stop criticism from the right-wing on AM radio — Rush Limbaugh won’t eve stop to take a breath — even though the Obama administration has almost single-handed prevented the US (and perhaps the world) from sliding into the deepest depression since 1929.
And though I too think it’s too early, we should appreciate Oslo’s recognition of a US foreign policy that’s more cure than amputation.
–What’s Really on My Mind, Louisville, Kentucky, US
PS. Clint Eastwood’s “Changling” is brilliant. See it! –TMM
I think the Nobel Prize committee got a bit “excited” and therefore ended up awarding the President prematurely. Our President has not achieved anything much to deserve it at this point. Perhaps later on, had he achieved some of his goals. He has not achieved anything in the matter of peace. It was a premature award because of the “hype” that is attached to his name.
At this time, nobody will agree that President Obama has desered the Prize, but certaily He reserves the prize. His career in the future will be infulenced so much by the prize, even the political activities of USA.
Take a breath everyone! Honorary university degrees are given every year to people who have not completed the course work. Academy Awards are often given to less-than-the-best, or the sentimental choice. And how about all those Nobels given out in the medicine and sciences areas? Are all of them awarded for actual accomplishments with tangible results — or for the promise and potential application of a particular person’s work?
For those who keep pointing out that 9 months is not enough time in office to be considered for the award — doesn’t the award committee statement refer to Obama’s speech in Germany before he became president? So the committee was obviously not just focusing on the last 9 months.
Personally, I think the award is a little embarrassing and very challenging for the President. The Nobel committee was obviously making a statement in their award. So why all the outrage?
President Obama deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for: (1) ascending to the Presidency of the United States and thereby peacefully driving the final stake into the dieing heart of racism in the United States–by doing this he made Martin Luther King’s dream a reality in America; (2) He is quickly reversing the United States’ outlaw position on climate change–to have peace on earth, you need to keep it habitable; (3) He has halted the Bush war on science–we need public policy based on best scientific principles to preserve the habitability of the planet for present and future generations. I’m a cynical, socially liberal fiscal conservative, who does not agree with everything Obama does, but as an American I am so proud of the United States of America for electing President Obama. Despite our economic woes, America and the World are both more racially harmonious because of what Obama has already done and he has the potential to do even more in the future. Peace on (a habitable) Earth!
President Obama is deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize for his accomplishments. He has brought the World’s only super power back from a disposition of unilateral military might. He has eased the tension between Russia and the U.S. by removing the missile defense system from the old Soviet Block States. (We were never closer to nuclear war since the Cold War than during the Bush Admisnistration ) He has opened dialogue with the U.S.’s most volitile enemies. (Iran and North Korea) He has brought the U.S. to the table on climate change. (If nothing is done about climate change war over resourses will be inevitable) He has re-established international cooperation between the U.S. and other nations. (Primarily “Old Europe”) He has re-established the U.S. credibility as the moral leader. (No more torture, no more “go it alone” no more unilateral agression etc.) And he has brought “hope” to the world that peace is still a possibility. He has brought the entire planet back from Def Con 1. He is deserving. – Doug Bruce Indianapolis, IN United States of America
Well, he is donating the award to charity. My choices are Sickle Cell Anemia, Breast Cancer research, UNCF just to name 3 possibilities. I hope where ever it goes, it will benefit those in need. Humans not animals. We have enough people puting them first, now, here in America.
no – too early, too soon
give him a chance to be a great man if he will. we cant see the future… only time will tell
There are so many other inspirational leaders than President Obama in this world. My question is why are we trying to get applause from everybody else?
I believe the Nobel Peace Prize should have been given to someone who REALLY does strive for justice and dignity. I say Mr. Evo Morales, the president of Bolivia, was the right person to obtain it. He does really struggle for Bolivia´s indigenous population, who, together with other Latinoamerican Indians, have for centuries been deprived of their rights and dignity. I do agree that Mr. Obama
has lots of good things going for him. But time will tell if he succeeds or not. A second or third place in this case would have been much more effective if the real reazon for this award was to encourage him to continue all the way with his visions and ideas, and to produce positive results… then the Nobel Peace Prize. As a recognition for achievments and nothing more.
President Obama is considered an “inspiration” is only because he is the President of the United States. If he was the President of any other country, he would not be looked up as “inspirational.”
If Obama can win Nobel Prize for effort… I guess I can also win Nobel prize for ineffort… What happens to those guys who are burning the candles on both side so that peace can be seeing in many part of the world? Prize or speechs and efforts… is not encouraging for upcoming people who have good intents… Efforts does not translate to achievement…
Ethiopia
President Obama has been selected to received the Nobel Peace Prize because he met the criteria required by the committee, by stepping into the shoes of Commander in Chief , at a time when many candidates ‘ran for the hills’. It takes a strong soldier to venture into our ‘U.S Minefield’ day after day and President Obama has been removing obstacles for nine months.
But he has given ‘HOPE’-and yes, ‘HOPE’ is important-to many Americans and people throughout the world. People now see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel, which had turned pitch black..
President Obama understands the arduous task ahead and has accepted the challenge. He has graciously accepted this honor and is humbled. He did not nominate himself. He deserves the time and support we promised him.
The BBC has offered the most well rounded reasoning that the committee selected Obama for the prize. If you look at the whole purpose of the award and the inspiration that Obama offers to people all over the world, then it is easier to understand the committee’s selection. I find it ironic that people who may have never cared about the Nobel Peace Prize now care and have an opinion because Obama is the prize recipient. Again it speaks of his ability to gather people and start dialog around almost any subject. Cheers Obama!
It seems that Nobel Committee found no alternative to Obama, they should have found other Americans in the List. Most of the Nobel Prizes are being presented to Americans. Are other People doing nothing for this world?
There are a lot of alternatives around the world who has really contributed for peace but they award it to someone who really has not contributed at that level to have this award. Is that because he is the black president of America and he promise to close the Guantanamo crime center, or was it because he want to reduce the no of soldiers in Iraq and increase in Afghanistan?. Hope Nobel Committee finds some neutral nobels in the future.
RE ” Was President Obama the right choice? “”
————————————————————————–
——————–It’s a beauty contest, so of course he’s as deserving as anyone.
Of course he’s unproven as a world leader yet, but the hope represented to the world by merely his election is palpable through this award. He’s already altered the reality of the world as we know it.
First of all let me congratulate the President of the U.S.A. for winning the Nobel Peace Price. I find it interesting that the average person seem to know what the criteria is for this prize more than the committee itself.
If Mr. Obama’s accomplishments falls within the ambit of the Nobel Peace Price qualifications then who are we to question his winning of the prize. The committee said they were awarding him for his efforts so far at achieving world peace, not for his results in achieving world peace.
It seems to me that Mr. Obama’s critics want to blame him somehow for his winning of the award (any chance to criticize him). He didn’t nominate himself and surely he didn’t award himself. His detractors should take up their criticisms with the committee that choose him if they disagree.
More power to you Mr. President. I wish you nothing but success in your future endevours at world peace. I predict that when all is said and done (after your two terms) history will confirm you as the best President the world and certainly America has seen thus far.
Wendy.
Nobel Prize for Peace. Interesting. The reason this prestigious and coveted awarded was given to Obama’s was due to his efforts in trying to bring peace. The word here is “trying” to bring peace. I
If you have taken physics, you know that if you push and push against a wall, until your muscles are screaming and your body is emerged in sweat and you do not move the wall, you have not worked.
Trying is one thing, but achieving is a horse of a different color.
Now lets address the word of Peace. Obama has started another war or soon will be. Is that a peaceful action? Not according to my dictionary. In fact, he has more men actively engaged than President Bush had during his term.
In my opinion, the award was a tad premature.
Obama and the Nobel peace price …why??
maybe because he was able to bring together an aloof black professor and a working class white man to sit down for beer at the white house lawn (after calling the whole Boston Police Dept. – stupid).
i think this the funnest jokes of this millennium made by nobel committee. they forgotten the actual meaning of peace.
Could the guy look anymore depressed? He just won the Nobel Peace Prize for Pete’s sake! If I won, I’d be high-five-ing everyone in the room!
Mckeith
I have a strong desire to end world hunger and bring peace between every religion and nation in the world. Can I have a Nobel Peace Prize now please? Kthxbye.
Hmm, Obama does not deserve the peace prize. But this is a deterent for any more ideas of war popping out of the US. I see smilarities with what happpened to Kwame Nkrumah, he took his eyes of Ghana and was focusing on world issues.
its is true we are in a global age and the homefront is always affected by the issues on the international front. If Obama puts so much focus on the international scene he will loose focus of the poor american who believed in his promises to make their lifes better.
So Mr President please remember who you will have to account to at the end of your term.
He received the nod because he really wants peace in the world. Next he’ll get the Nobel Prize for Medicine because he REALLY REALLY wants to fix health care. I really want peace too. In fact, I think I want it more than President Obama. And I wasn’t even nominated. (Shakes fist at nominating committee).
BTW I am a white woman who has been both a Republican and a Democrat – it is about the person not the party.
Absolutely not! He has done nothing to deserve this prize. This is an insult to all Americans.
I voted for Pres Obama but find it hard to justify this award so soon in his Presidency.How can the head of the world’s largest Military Industrial Complex be awarded such an honor even with his good intentions. They might as well have given this award to Bush/Shrub. Alex in Florida
He is much better at saying than doing. yes, we can, while actually ,no, he can’t. we shouldn’t expect him to achieve much within such a short time, but undeniably he hasn’t achieve enough to be awarded the prize.
Barack Obama, in a very short time, has framed the message and the mission for the entire world, connecting the people of the world to our common interests and our common perils. What world leader has taken on the issue of nuclear disarmament to the extent that Barack Obama has done, knowing that conservative elements in the US will see this as weakness? What world leader has said in every corner of the globe that leaders who do not stand on the side of justice for their citizens are on the wrong side? What other American leader has consistently and publicly taken up the cause of the Palestinians and demanded an end to Israeli settlements, again knowing the political risks of such a position in the US? I applaud the Nobel committee for recognizing that this man is a leader among leaders who is changing the world by his courage on the world stage and in the political arena of the US. If he did nothing else, he has changed the standards for world leaders for our time.
OF Course, Obama deserves the award. The committee very clearly spells out why they awarded it to him in their award announcement. I am very disappointed that people including BBC moderator don’t get the required information first. Instead of speculating about why it was awarded just read the press release from the committee!
Many people complain he has done nothing concrete. In that case how can it be justified that the award be given to Mother Theresa, Dali Lama? Both are inspirational. Both have done great things but permanent peace as many of the naysayers seem to require has not happened for any of the laureates!
Obama has made great international strides already in promoting world dialogue. As the committee stated this is incredibly important!
While Obama has accomplished little so far otherthan being not Shrub, compared to Kissinger at least he is not a war criminal. The prize has been debased over the years such that to me it is no longer a big deal.
While we recognize that President Obama has put forth some efforts and said some positive things, we do not believe someone who has not actually achieved any of his stated goals for peace or diplomacy should be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize based on efforts and sayings alone. Many notable people — such as Gandhi — have achieved vastly more for peace in the world community and been overlooked. If this is a prize for not being George W. Bush, then he should have to share it with a *LOT* of people. (Many of them more qualified for the honor.)
John Anthony La Pietra (“la-pea-ET-tra”)
Marshall, MIchigan, USA
Good day WHYSayers.
President Barack Obama deserves this prize in the say way Rio de Janeiro, Brazil deserve the 2016 summer Olympics. As we say in Jamaica, wah fi yuh, can’t be un fi yuh! In other words (English), whatever belongs to you, you will get! There is no other sitting or past president of the USA that has done so much good in such a short space of time. Obama was appointed by God to do a special work, not only in America but the world. And he will achieve his destiny if he walks in the foot steps of Jesus.
President Obama’s detractors (esp. the fanatical republican righ wing) refuse to see any of his redeeming qualities. The saying is indeed true, there is none so blind as he who refuse to see!
Congratulations ! President Obama. Keep on doing what you are doing. Never change except it is for the better and your name will be immortalized. Thanks for relieving us of the nervous breakdown many of us would have suffered had the fanatical republicans engineered an unprecedent 3rd term in office.
CarlosK,
Kingston-Jamaica.
No. Not al all. Big talk, big plan and big ambition do not add up to the supposedly prestigious award.
Farcically preposterous! The Nobel Peace Prize awarding committee had put the other 200 odd nominees to shame.
May God save the Peace Prize. It was cheap on several occasions in the past, it is now even cheaper.
Why not just abolish the lack-lustre, meaningless yet politically-slanted Prize?
Some day within our lifetimes, a nuclear bomb will be detonated on U.S. soil. The usual terrorist suspects will laugh and deny responsibility. At that point Europeans will think it is OK for the U.S. to take action against those who have been continually advocating the destruction of Israel and the U.S. Millions will die because we are now rewarding good intentions instead of concrete action. Does anyone remember Neville Chamberlain ?
I am shocked because of the short duration of the body of work being recognized here. Notice that the Nobels in physics and chemistry are routinely awarded to those who have worked for 30 years or more. This year’s physics Nobel was awarded in part to a team that began their work on Charge-Coupled Devices when Obama was about five years old! Even in past peace prizes, Mandela and ML King Jr were recognized for decades of struggle.
This precedent of rewarding rhetoric and good intentions is disturbing.
Bush, deserves the Nobel Prize. He stop the attack in the USA, and keep it safe for eight year. At least he didi something. Obama=Nothing,
Mr. Obama does not deserve this award – for he has done nothing to earn it. Further, this is a slap in the face to the other nominees and all who weren’t nominated who have worked and sacrificed in countless ways to build a more peaceful world. This is a disgrace – and the committee who made this choice should be ashamed of what they have done to denigrate what was once a prestigious and meaningful award.
The peace prize has been a ridiculous sideshow to international efforts to promote peace and understanding for many years now. This is just the latest instalment in the populist fawning and superficial judgement the Norwegian committee has become famous for. As we have seen before, you can spend a lifetime undermining peace and promoting violence, but when you finally realise that this has achieved nothing, suddenly you’re a peace loving international champion. I support Obama and have welcomed the new face that the United States is showing the world, but the peace prize has proved itself once again to be about as meaningful as a teen choice award. The committee is extremely naive if it doesn’ think we all know this is aimed squarely at the previous administration and has very little to do with the limited achievements of Preseident Obama..
it only shows that even nobel committee is not free from influence.its not shocking because they did it so many times in past. we should create a nobel commeeitte whose members are robots to avoid this type of stupid decisions.
i realy think the old man jumped gun here ,the hasnt done anything yet rather than spirited speeches and wve had plenty of those .if u ask me Tsvangirai deserves it more than him . look here the man won an election but stood down bcoz u know of what and made a great sacrifice bcoz 4 the luv of his pple ,the old hermits must use their heads
With all due respect, a political choice. An astounded BBC fan.
I am a supporter of obama but I still think that this is an unwarranted award compared to the acknowledged alternative nominees. ultimately I feel this award will be more of a liability than a positive contribution to his legacy
Congratulations president obama for this historic win of the Nobel Peace prize. How many American presidents have ever won this prize called “Prestigious” by Senator Mac cain?
The neo- Conservatives are simply jealous of what President obama has achieved in so short a time. They vowed to “bring him down” and will therefore see nothing good in him. The Nobel committee said it is pleased with the “steps taken by President obama” to bring about world peace and collaboration amongst people of the world.
It is my opinion that President obama deserves this award as an encouragement to do more and face the challenges of the 21st cetury,which are enormous. He said that much in his acceptance speech.
It will serve the american people more to understand the game plan of the conservative: ridiucle Obama in all areas so as to drive him down.
I dont know what all the brouhaha is about. At the end of the day history will show that the nobel prize for peace in 2009 went to Barrack Obama.
The nobel committee says it was for the hope he engendered in the world, how many leaders can we say the same for in this day and age.
I applaud the nobel committee for its boldness and vision.
No one thinks Barrack Obama will solve all the world’s or America’s problems, but if anyone deserves the nobel prize for peace, it is Obama
no. the smoke and mirrors have won. smile for change. chant for hope; but please people… why?
obama deserves to win the award no other president has ever tried so hard to make a change in america , im 15 and already have 5 years experience of councelling teenagers . you can say what you want about obama but the good people of britain know very well how hard it actually is to be in his shoes at this moment in time
I think i figured it out.
He went to the IOC and lost so the Nobel committee decided to give him a little morale booster. Much like when he got voted in after just sitting in the senate for a few months before starting to campaign for presidency.
I mean who really needs to work after being elected. These family trips paid for by the US taxpayer’s must be cool. That could be what he got it for though. We have a saying around here “if momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy” so he got the award for taking the wife an kids on trips at least 2 times a month at the american taxpayer’s expense. Which keeps peace at home i guess. And, it only cost what, a cool million bucks to the us taxpayer and businesses (i.e. airlines, motorists, etc.) to take his wife to a broadway play after the inauguration. I mean he had to wait till he was inaugurated god forbid the man take a private jet instead of either marine one or air force one. That must be so below him.
Who made the lasting impact in 2009? It is not awared for bringing peace in war torn part of world but giving new perspective to the muslim world and those new nuclear ambitious nations by taking a lead and showing them that there is a third way. Dont expect superpower of USA to take lead in everything and others can do their part as well.
Very fact that G20 was organised in london and Pittsburgh,bankers are put on notice with new fiancial regulations are unheard of for decades. Theses are solid achievements no one should overlook.Gordon Brown got world’s statement awards and from this new perspective world is in on a path to peaceful world. There are not just two sides to a coin,but 3 sides to any nacked eye ,but if look deeper several dimenstions indeed.
Congratulations to President Obama and we hope there would be fresh incentives for peace in middle east ,asia and africa let alone continue to pursure nuclear disarmamments with renewed vigour.
Congratulations Mr. President. This is to all the confused people out there, asking why you were awarded the Nobel prize: In the innocent times of childhood, I think everybody had something growing up?- a little blanket-, teddy bear-, favorite book-, the thing- giving you comfort- a sense of security and peace of mind. In a time of distress or worry, you could take one of those items (even though they did nothing visible) and hold in your hands. Having them close to you -, under the pillow was enough to calm you down, make you happy, and give you peace of mind. The entire world has to calm down, the entire world is looking for peace, and you, Mr. President, you are the one, who like those items we treasured the most as a children, for us adults doing that. Giving us hope for peace, and calming down the world. We as a people have to stop the hate towards one another, created because of the color of our skin, religious beliefs, and who we are. We have learned through history, as time passes, accomplishments we made by wars with each other vanish, and the points we were making do not matter any more. We were fighting for something we created in our minds. It is time to fight for something real-something which will last forever, something we all as a people depend on. And only united –all people, all ethnicities, all beliefs, all religions, all sexes- we can save the thing we all call home, our planet earth. This is why you deserve this prestigious award, the Nobel prize. We have a long journey ahead of us, but the will is finally here. Think about it. Marek Drzazgowski
I voted for Obama here in the United States to end the war in Iraq and reform our domestic economy. Now, from a peace studies perspective ending war, improving the environment, and bringing health care reform are all peace building enterprises.
Sadly, Obama has done nothing. He won by a landslide, but is unable to force the democratically controlled congress to act. LBJ when elected in 1964 had similar majorities, as did FDR at different times during the Great Depression, yet Obama has done nothing to:
1.) End the war in Iraq
2.) Pass Health Care Reform with a single payer or public option
He appears weak and unable to compel his own party to do what he wants. He is a weak president. This was shown when he gave the banks a giveaway but has done little to ease the suffering of everyday American citizens. Our cities are full of empty buildings that no one can afford, homes that are being foreclosed, and streets in decline. We are still spending billions on war, and health care, yet we have sick children sleeping on the street. I had such hope for change, but Obama is a weak president.
Now, I think the peace prize might have gone to him because of our long “war” of race discrimination following the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. By electing an African-American president, the US showed itself able to overcome its own bloody past of slavery, lynching, and racial apartheid. I suppose this is a good sign.
This is extremely shocking to me and many of the people I know. Obama has won what is supposed to be considered 1 of the most prestigious award for doing absolutely nothing.
He may be intelligent, educated, personable and definitely an inspiring orator. But he has yet to accomplish anything in the regards to obtaining peace. We are still at war in Irag and it was his decision to increase war effforts in Afghanistan. Has this fact been ignored?
He is good at making promises…..and has inspired many…so many that it got him elected into office. But as an American, I’m still waiting for him to fulfill his promises….and am disturbed that he has won this prize for things he hasn’t done yet…for things he’s supposed to do in the future. What if the world ends up being in more turmoil during his administration….
The American people were wooed by his charsimatic personality, now the Nobel Peace committee……where are the accomplishments?
So now, we’re a world based on dreams instead of reality……this scares me.
Michelle
Los Angeles, CA
He has done a few things. But in my opinion the one accomplishment that the nobel comittee recognized was the accomplishment that President Obama is not President Bush. That is all he really had to do; simply not be George Bush. People talk about anger and hate from the right all of the time in America and the world, but hate comes from both sides and this proves it for me. It’s good that he won the award, as an American I can feel proud about that. But I can’t help but look beyond the award to the men who controls who recieves it. I believe that anger and hate, not merrit were the main reasons this award was given.
Mark
The Award is not ours to give, so take it for what is and move on.
Have we not forgotten the sigh of relief the world breathed upon his winning the election.
His entry was one of hope the world wide, that conditions and ways would change rather than the ” bring it on ” mentality of the former administration.
Name a man, who has given the world hope in modern times…
It is President Obama.
yes he deserves it bcz he has is stopping such a process which was going to destroy the american culture and indentification,which was going towards a new world war.i pray that Allah should help him in sloving the disputes and maitianing the peace on earth.may Allah protect him and show him the striaght path of the life.
Well, the Committee has never been shy about criticising those in power who have strayed from the path of peace and justice; it did this to George W. Bush throughout his presidential tenure. It has also been quick, at times, to reward those who follow the path of peace, even though the outcome of a particular journey is far from certain. I would argue that the 1994 Arafat/Rabin/Peres Peace Prize is an example of this.
We go further into that argument here….
http://notesfromthebartender.wordpress.com/2009/10/10/obamas-nobel-peace-prize-and-rebuilding-“brand-usa”/
He deserves it for sure for all his efforts for peace and the hope he incarnates for the world, nevertheless, it came as a surprise for everyone (including Obama himself!) and it is still hard for our brains realize it and accept it … I think may be the nobel comittee could have waited a little more years before honoring him with such a prestigious prize …
(SNAPPER)
The fact that so many persons around the world have found it necessary to contribute their reaction to the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Obama, indicates to me that something very, very big is unfolding in the world. Something that will influence the way peoples and nations relate to each other, and positive outcomes as a result. All this has become a reality because of one man and his philosophy of life and leadership. The pros and cons of this event are delightful. Only God knows if he will be alowed to achieve his vision. Walk good my friend.
Well, nothing like taking the peace out of the peace prize. If anything he will cause more unrest than many a prez before him. Now where is the peace the Nobel was rewarding again?
Obama’s winning of Nobel Peace Prize is as much a joke as was Le Duc Tho and Henry Kissinger’s, though I like to mention that Le had a lot more modesty and decency not to accept it.
Well, time really has come, I strongly believe, to judge the legitimacy of Nobel Prize Committee. To be Barak Obama, President of United States, should not be the only criteria for being a Nobel Laureate.
I have two thoughts about this, one serious and one that makes me smile. 1. Don’t forget that Obama had done much before becoming President. It seems there’s an assumption that the award is only for his work since becoming US president. 2. What a relief to have a president who can spell Nobel and pronounce it correctly after having had Bush for 8 years. Perhaps it’s simply the world sighing in relief…America is not keeping in step to the beat of the dumb and dumber.
Yes, it was too soon. I generally think Obama is on the right track, but to award the Peace Prize this soon without tangible progress trivializes the Prize. It’s difficult to understand the motivations of the Prize Committee: encouragement? relief that GWB is out of office? Obama worship? It’s not good to leave people scratching their heads over such an honor.
I do not think is is fair to criticize Obama for receiving, and later accepting the award. He will donate the money to charity, and was a surprised as anyone about it. Having been awarded the prize, it would be compounding the error to refuse it. He should accept it as the holder of the Office of the President of the US, but avoid personalizing it.
Well, I didnt realise that Obama won himself another controversial again – that he won Noble Peace in advanced before his vision has actually happen not to mention he in only office less than 10 months. Well, for anyone who disgreed with the award, pls go and watch Tom Cruise’s Minority Report. According to Nobel Prize Committee, their Minority Report seems to tell it will happen. LOL
AM SURPRISED. WHAT HAS OBAMA DONE TO MERIT THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE. THIS IS A FRAUD. THE DEADLINE FOR THE PRIZE WAS TWO WEEKS AFTER HIS INAUGURATION. THE BEST FOR HIM IS NOT TO ACCEPT THE PEACE PRIZE
One last thing, I just read Pam’s response. I totally agree with it. The committee can do whatever the hell they want with the prize. They can even give it to their own dogs for reason they sleep all they and never cause war in the world. They give the award and they give the explanation. I think that is good enough. This whole fiasco would not be happening if this is only some sort of minor award not worth mentioning.
Ironic, given that President Obama had won it… But then again, the Nobel Prizes itself, especially for Peace, is extremely ironic, as Alfred Nobel made his fortune and left this fortune to be distributed as Prizes…
Ironic – Oui Oui!!
no he does not deserve a noble prize for he has not done anything yet and just taking over bust does not entitle him to b a winner.
Obama is the same as Bush. Worse. Obama is there to put a lovely face on US government policy while those around him in his government pour misery and grief on millions and billions around the world.
And the world bewitched by his bright smile and eloquence, coo in his greatness and position.
He should share his prize with Henry Kissinger. Kissinger gave him his first job and this one that he presently holds today!
What he should really do is stop helping the world until America is back on solid ground. The money saved would turn her around completely. Healthcare bill would pay for itself. Schools would have the funds needed. Childrend in need of help would receive it. We would not need local taxes for muchof anything. As a blackwoman in America, I am very hard on her past but as a citizen, I take exception of anyone not here telling anyone here what to do with their time, money or opinions. Take care of your selves for the duration of President obama’s tenure. No money. No food. Pull our soldiers out of every area of the globe. We will do quite well. How many of you will?
Guess what? there is a stupid French politician who recently said that Nicolas Sarkozy deserved it more than Barak OBAMA. !!!
That is a joke, really.
I am absolutely a obama fan. I followed ever<y single speech he has given during the election campaighn and after he became the president of usa. I admire him and his work and the way way he pits new hope to the present and fututre world. o know he cant achieve all his misson but suddenly therie is somoe one who awakes our hope but i still believe that he doesnt desrve the prize as there are are many m more people waho would have earned it. nothing against of his good will but he could get it later in the future
I do not pretend to know what was in the minds of the Nobel committee. That being said, it seems to me that President Obama was awarded the Nobel prize for dramatically changing the direction of the diplomacy and foreign policy of the U.S. In the view of the Nobel committee it may be that this alone warrants awarding the prize.
For good or Ill, the U.S. is the leading nation of the world, thus, adopting a course of hope over one of fear is cause for celebration.
Does Obama deseve the prize?if we are still alive you can ask us in 4 years time.
Excuse me!!! I am a staunch supporter of Israel. Yet, it is not up to us to be the determining factor for peace. It starts with yourselves and that includes everyone in the region. I have no doubt anti=semitism is on the rise, even here in America. I understand fully the mistrust. One does not follow the history of a people from Rome to now and not understand. As a minority in my country, who received so much help from your people, I really understand. Yet, something has to be done. As Martin Luther King did, sometimes the first step is the hardest and the most ludicrous and the stakes we were up against were just as dangerous and frightening. We lost thousands in lives fighting for our rights. It still isn’t perfect. That’s the reason I have absolutely no tolerance for what is going on in this country since Obama won.
it was and is very funny, when i heard this news. how many people in the world are making false statements and fake promises to win the hearts of the people and Obama is one of them. i never seen that some one won the prize only on promise. what he did and he can do? he is not the man who is making the policies he is the man who is following the policies. the Noble prize committee make fun of the Alfred Noble thoughts. i think the value of this prize is felled.
First Black African America (Oboma) is really peacemaker and talkie man by the ways,
Therefore, we African are proud of him.
Prestige of the Nobel Prize for peace has been completely downgraded. This Prize is given in recognition of actual accomplishments and not for future possible results. How can the Nobel Committee be so grossly naive? I think President Obama should politely decline to accept this Prize in the present circumstances. It will certainly enhance his status, standing and honour. May be Pres.Obama will fully justify his selection for this prestigious award in course of time. President Obama is diametrically opposite to George W. Bush and I am sure he will eventually transform himself into a great stateman of USA like Theodore Roosevelt and Harry Truman. Best of Luck to him.
In my personal opinion he does not deserve it. But may be, because US has such an influence on whole world and has been involved in regular war; making its president a “representative for world peace” gives it(The peace) a better chance.
There has been many people agains Obama even the time of campaign. The Noble Prize Committee is not a corrupt body if I must suggest. Therefore for the noble prize committee to have chosen Obama it clearly means that they must have debated over and over and if finally Obama is chosen for this he merits it if not him? who else is doing what Obama is doing despite his short term in office. To me anybody who is agains Obama’s achievement is just being jealous of his possition and will really want to see Obama’s failure. BBC listeners I must appreciate Obama for this achievement and I pray he succeed in his term of office. Good Luck OBAMA
President Obama has made huge steps forward on the ecology (the U.S. previously dragged the rest of the world down, and is now pushing it forward), on US foreign policy, and the economy, has started work on health care, against enormous opposition from the conservative and religious right, who have organised a massive commercial campaign against all he sands for, and was elected for. Many of the critics above sounds like right-wing Americans pressing this campaign!
He deserves every encouragement, and the Nobel prize is well deserved and will give him the support he needs.
If the barrel is this dry perhaps the committee would have done better not announcing a winner. What has happened demeans the prize so its value to any future winner is less. A friend suggested that the only advancement towards peace in the last 12 months was the wind-down in Iraq which was precipitated by the Bush surge. Did the committee give W. consideration? Whatever diplomacy (whatever that is) that has occurred has been largely the effort of Mrs. Clinton. Did the committee give her consideration? Obaba is strangely like a playboy fold-out: Very attractive, very compelling. But when you look at the other side all you find are jokes.
Does anyone “deserve” such a prize anymore than one should deserve the Victoria Cross or a Queen’s Honor?
Obviously not.
The fact remains that the Nobel Peace Prize, unlike the other Nobel Prizes, tends to aspirational instead of memorial, and the Norwegian panel that named President Obama said as much in their announcement.
The real question is whether the President will interpret the award to change the direction of his government regarding foreign policy and overseas warfare or to rationalize what he decides to do. The former course indicates an intent fully to rejoin the family of nations; the latter, no more than a “kinder and gentler” repackaging of the previous administration’s mistakes and arrogance.
I agree with the award of the Nobel prize for peace to President Obama. His achievement is one of changing the momentum for peace. When he took over office , the world was gpoing towards a different direction. Someone had to apply the breaks, and change course, and he has done that.
Look at the world today, at least we have hope. There are signs from North Korea, Russia, Burma, South American, Zimbabwe, and even Iran of change towards dialogue. Even in ME he is striving to show an unbiased approach to a settlement between Isreal and the Palestinians.
There is also progress in reducing the nuclear arsenal, and there is momentum in reducing global warning.
Yes he deserves it , for just being the catalyst for change.
What do people mean Obama hasn’t achieved anything…winning US presidency: Done! Becoming the first African-American president: Done! Winning Nobel Prize: Done! Now in his three remaining years if office there must be some way to also award him an Oscar, a Grammy, a knighthood, and sainthood.
As an American, I’m proud of Obama. And while there may be many in my country who may be upset that he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, I would imagine that the Nobel Prize Committee’s selection of Desmond Tutu in 1984 wasn’t particularly popular among supporters of the South African apartheid regime back then, nor was the selection of Lech Walesa a year before popular among committed Communists across the Soviet Bloc. Obama has articulated and steered the country and indeed the world toward an alternative to an otherwise more or less certain and probably extended “Clash of Civilizations” between the Western and Moslem worlds. Perhaps his efforts will fail. But he offers an alternative to an otherwise fatalistic and violent status quo.
well, to be true, getting bush off the president’s seat was the biggest move to peace, in the last ten years no one has been as violent as him, no one. So compare any others with this feat, obama is a clear cut choice. though it may be for ending war than procuring enduring peace, but none the less, i will take it. congrats obama!
We have term limits in the U.S. so anyone was going to be the next President. Bush wasn’t even running for re-election. It is bad when the only leg to stand on is still….I am not Bush, better than Bush……I’d be offended!
Most of time, the announcement of award is controversial specially that has huge fame and impact as well as influence over the world in one or other way. The case of Obama is no exception too. At the same time, the association of Obama with this award makes it more charming as well for different reasons.
I am puzzled
Q1. Why the noble committee was so hasty ?
Q2. Is the noble peace prize a farce and awared for rhetoric ?
Q3. Is Mr Obama gonna wear undies at the award ceremony ?
Q4. Why not it was awared to Mr Mahinda Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka, the only world leader who had wipped out terorism from his country ?
Q4. On which basis Mr Morgan Tsvangiraiof Zimbabway was discarded ? -Not done enough ?
Q5. Will the noble peace prize be awared to a Chinese / Russian/ Iranian leader (except Gorba who washed undies for US & scattered USSR)
Ok, I will try again on this because I think it is showing here the substance of who is deserving of this award. Someone who gives “hope” and someone who actually did something to effect hope and actually change lives for the better.
I think that we should be looking at who did not win this prize: some were Sima Samar, Dr. Denis Mukwege, Handicap International and Cluster Munition Coalition, Irenda Sendler………
I´m agree with the Nobel.
He´s doing what he can (and that´s not much because of the factical powers)
Let´s make peace a chance, like said John L.
thanks!
I do believe he is on the right track but most certainly not done much at all to deserve such a award, he has a long way to go and surely they could have waited for him to end his 1st term as president then decide if he is the right choice for such a award, he surely does not at present deserve to be among those who have received this award in the past as what they have done/contributed to this world surely deserved this award
barack obama should not have accepted this award.
I really like Obama and think he is off to a good start, but I didn’t really think he had accomplished enough yet to merit a Nobel prize. Maybe this is subtle (or not so subtle) pressure to stay on the track of peace?
Obama’s courage to ignore right wing hardliners and take America towards a peaceful future, definitely deserves praise and recognition.
i believe he has made a great effort in ensuring world peace hence,he deserves the award.
President Obama brought many people together during and after the election campaign. He might not have had that effect on the whole world but he did give them a sense of hopoe, so much so that he was given the award. I have no problem with that.
This decision, It should be seen as a victory for citizens of the world and it shows this group of committed men and women are highly responsible, with deep integrity and will consider the effect of this prize beyond the surface of achievements alone. They are keeping the spirit of the Nobel Peace Prize by giving it to Obama as it is urgent for all of us to take our share of responsibility for a global response to global challenges.
We need as many disciples of peace, love, dignity, equality and hope – for a non dogmatic approach. The Committee has recognized the need of addressing moral issues and are respecting initiatives that could foster peace.
The importance of Obama’s vision is not just for what he already has accomplished but for the hope he symbolizes in bring the US back into a position of influence in the forums of the world. The world needs a movement not just for the USA but globally.
President Obama is certainly deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize for his negotiations to eliminate nuclear weapons and to increase international diplomacy. I think Greg Mortenson, who worked to build schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan deserves an honorable mention for his efforts to promote peace by educating children though.
I am of the opinion that it is the president Rajapakse who should be awarded with the noble prize, for if it is meant for acomplishment. MR achieved a peace in a country, which was almost close to be dragged into the peril of Statelessness.
Apparently few people understand the criteria for the award.
Is it a recognition of achievement? If so, did Nelson Mandela deserve it just for making some speeches and becoming a symbol of change?
Those who shared his goals and motivations say yes. Those who feared what he represented or hated him for simply being elected say no.
Sound familiar?
As a proud Persian and a citizen of the world, I think this judgement, should be seen as a triumph for all of us around the world and it shows this group of committed men and women are highly responsible, with deep integrity and will consider the effect of this prize from a much deeper point. Keeping the spirit of the Nobel Peace Prize by giving it to Obama as it is urgent for all of us to take our share of responsibility for a global response to global challenges.
We need as many disciples of dignity, hope and peace, love, dignity, respect equality and a non dogmatic approach. The Committee has recognised the need of addressing moral issues and are respecting initiatives that could foster peace.
The price is not awared for the achievment of world peace…how about him acctually genuinly deserved it for breaking down the divide of black and white america. for his fight to have a united staes of america and not a red or blue america……this nation has been at war with itself, thanks to divisionary politics. i think that this is an effort that has been ignored. yes is trying to work on world peace, but we all know that this is a lofty goal, best left for beauty pagent competitors….
“Michelle-Los Angeles
October 10, 2009 at 20:10
So now, we’re a world based on dreams instead of reality……this scares me.
Michelle
Los Angeles, CA”
Michelle,
was there not a famouse speech by a fameouse person in the 60’s about “I had a Dream…….” and is Obama not the direct product and reality of this dream?
So do not fear the dream that can lead to reality…..
I recognize the noble prize for Obama, if this award can only trap Obama, for keeping the heap of promises tagged to him in the helpless world. Otherwise nothing would come out! I also think the committe too wanted to trap this Man into certain no-comeback net.
But can just one man, even if he wanted, deliver as an entire hedgemony does otherwise !
Therefore, the prize should be given to a person with a task finished, not only for a hope and a bit. hence Sri Lankas Rajapakse !
A huge puzzlement that kept my jaw hangs out for a long time. Babar Ali has more to show in this regard. I am sure Babar Ali has a much better future in keeping the world peaceful through education.
Hi,
I think the Nobel committee should have waited for some time. Still no time to judge President Obama. What ever he has done, still have not shown much results. As such in my opinion, the committee either made a mistake or they are expecting Obama to act upon it in the future.
So far as actually acheiving lasting peace anywhere in the world Obama hasn’t finished that job so a Dennis Kucinich he isn’t in that respect. That having been said, the world has had such low expectations of the United States for the past eight years of lunacy that the voters here imposed on themselves by the choice of a delusional megalomaniac that any move even vaguely in the direction of merely establishing a functional dialogue with the other nominally democratic nations of the earth is seen as a monumental acheivement worthy of all the encouragement it can get. Call it the politics of vastly lowered ecpectations if you wish to view the glass as half-empty, but at least acknowlege Obama’s efforts to restore a practical diplomacy for the positive (and far more importantly presumably sincere) gestures that they are. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step but it must set out in the correct direction rather than continuing to follow blind advisors like Bolton that the entire civilized world rejected as unfit to
negotiate anything and thereby meandering in self-defeating ever narrowing circles the way Bush did for his entire two terms. Obama hasn’t fixed the economic train wreck, gotten health care reform, given gays unlimited civil rights, solved the global warming problem and secured world peace in 8 months so what’s wrond with him? After all, God created all the living things on earth in only six days…so what’s Obama’s excuse for not outdoing that?
It’s a huge question mark?????
I think he deserve this award because he accelerate the war against Afghan and Iraqi Nationals.
Even nothing in his mind what to do with these problems & how to safe & serve US Economy.
It’s also the huge question mark on the credibility of Nobel.
Squeeze Obama not to act against terror. Norway let countries do this often. Why Sri Lankan President not even considered. Shame on Nobel committee.
President Obama brought many people together during and after the election campaign like Hilary.
But Nobel Peace Prize mostly eligible person was Velupille Prabakeran according to Novegien Peace Keepers And They have tried maney ways with Hilary & other their associates to save that valveble mans life.Hilary would be entital Nobel prized before President Obama. I was serpriced about Norvigien decission.
I don’t think Obama is suitable for the award.
I propose Sarath Fonseka the former Army Commander in Sri Lanka deserves the prize as he did a great job to finish a the longest war in the world.
Yes. President Obama very much deserves the Nobel prize for his initiatives for the global peace and economic stability during this very short period. And it’d be an encouragement and a catalist towards the greater efforts on the same. Congratz and keep the good work going !!!
i think he desevers th peace prize.i have always wanted one.
President Obama’s commitment to Peace and the effort he has taken up to now undoubtedly make us believe that he will deliver on his commitment. He very well deserves the Nobel Peace prize
It’s a shame to the Noble prise as Mr. Obama did nothing for the peace.
Optimism is the essence in him/
Broadminded views of democracy/
And true spirit of humanitarian ethics/
Merge in his unquestionable diplomacy/
A wind of change emanates from him/
When President Obama was elected to power, I wrote the above lines in acrostic style. He now proves that he moves forward as the way many peace favorites wish. Let us hope that an American President holding the Nobel Peace Prize will not indulge in any war or atrocities at least for the next three years. I think the Nobel committee might have taken a thought provoking decision by looking forward to a peaceful world in the offing. Now the President will think twice, unlike his predecessor, before he orders his military forces to show a war mongering reality show on someone’s land. And let us also hope that he
I believe it is a tribute to the great people of America who elected a Black to be their President, by passing all racial & cultural prejudices. He is the best man to accept it on behalf of all Americans
i am one who voted for obama, and he is a good man but he does not deserve this award
Hi I Don’t think Obama does not deserve the Nobel Peace prise asa he still has not shown the world what he can do to bring peace to the Middel east .also he has failed to recognise the Sri Lanka government defeeting the tamil tigergers one of the most ruthless terro groups in the world.
I was surprised that Obama was awarded with Nobel PEACE price, now it seems to be this price is awarded for doing nothing for peace, otherwise it would have gone to Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapakshe.
ridiculous!
what he has done to achieve such a noble prize
It is obvious that Obama does not deserve this award. There are millions of people suffer due to American political principle. There are so many example at Iraq and Afghanistan. I vote for Sri Lankan President Mahainda Rajapakshe. He was able to finish the war in Sri Lanka when so many other countries force him in many ways. He save so many people. There is no mean of giving this award to Obama.
this award should surely go to the srilankan presidant mahinda rajapakshe.he has completed a work which nobody could ever do.
Yes! for sure Mahinda Rajapakshe, President of Srilanka did far more better for peace than what Obama did or is doing. So why it was not Rajapakshe? Or it should be Girija Prasad Koirala of Nepal, who brought the rebel Maoist terrorist to the peace deal and finally to the government.
I think this nobel prize is also influenced by American Power…
he is not achife the understanding about tibet issuie .
A discussion is going on here also.My views are reflected here.
http://www.boddunan.com/forums/3-contests-a-rewards/11621-group-discussion-contest-11th-jan-2010-17th-jan-2010-.html