Nobel Peace Prize could honour UNRWA, ICJ, UN chief Guterres
In a year overshadowed by the escalating Israel-Hamas war, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and humanitarian crises in Sudan, experts predict that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres are among the frontrunners for the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize. The Norwegian Nobel Committee is set to announce the recipient on October 11.
Henrik Urdal, director of the Peace Research Institute Oslo, highlighted the significance of UNRWA’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza, stating, “They’re doing extremely important work for civilian Palestinians that experience the sufferings of the war in Gaza.” However, he acknowledged the potential controversy surrounding UNRWA due to allegations of involvement by some of its staff in the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas. These allegations led to temporary funding halts from several countries, although most donors have since resumed their contributions.
Established in 1949 to aid Palestinians following the establishment of Israel, UNRWA continues to provide essential services to millions in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. Nonetheless, the agency faces criticism from Israel, which claims it aims to dismantle UNRWA.
The committee may also consider awarding Guterres, with or without the ICJ, as a means to reinforce the global order established after World War II. The ICJ has been vocal in condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and urging Israel to prevent genocide in Gaza, a claim Israel dismisses.
Historian Asle Sveen remarked that the Nobel Committee could opt for a more unconventional route this year, including the possibility of withholding the prize entirely, a rare occurrence last seen in 1972. Dan Smith, head of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, suggested this might be an appropriate response given the current state of global conflict.
Nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize are confidential for 50 years, though nominators can disclose their choices. With numerous individuals, including former parliament members and academic professionals, eligible to propose candidates, the committee’s decision remains highly anticipated yet uncertain.
