Reassessing the Nobel Peace Prize: Political Influence, Institutional Bias, and Controversies

A. Murat Tuncer

Abstract: In accordance with Nobel's will, the recipient is selected by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, a five-member committee appointed by the Parliament of Norway. Due to its political nature, the Nobel Peace Prize has, for most of its history, been subject to numerous controversies. There is a well-known, but possibly apocryphal, story that in 1888, after the death of his brother Ludvig, several newspapers mistakenly published obituaries of Alfred. One French newspaper condemned him for his invention of military explosives, and this is said to have brought about his decision to leave a better legacy after his death. The obituary stated, Le marchand de la mort est mort "The merchant of death is dead") and went on to say, "Dr. Alfred Nobel, who became rich by finding ways to kill more people faster than ever before, died yesterday". However, it has been questioned whether or not the obituary in question actually existed. This article critically examines the historical trajectory and contemporary controversies surrounding the Nobel Peace Prize, focusing on allegations of political influence, ideological bias, and exclusionary practices. Through an analysis of key laureates and omissions, the study explores how global power dynamics and national interests may shape the selection process. Drawing from documented cases and scholarly commentary, it highlights the divergence between Alfred Nobel?s original intent and current practices. The article proposes that restoring credibility to the prize requires a return to its foundational principles and increased transparency in committee operations.

Keywords: Nobel Peace Prize, political bias, award controversies, international relations, peace advocacy, Israel, Palestine, Genocide, Sumud Flotilla

How to Cite?: A. Murat Tuncer, "Reassessing the Nobel Peace Prize: Political Influence, Institutional Bias, and Controversies", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 120-123, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251031125637, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251031125637