The decision to recognize Japan’s Hidankyo means the Nobel Committee has distanced itself from more controversial candidates for the Peace Prize.
There was widespread speculation that UNRWA, the UN agency supporting Palestinians, was receiving the award.
This group is the main organization providing humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip, but on October 7 last year, nine members were fired for their involvement in Hamas’ attack on Israel.
More than 12,000 people signed a petition urging the committee not to award the award to UNRWA.
The same concerns were raised about the nomination of the International Court of Justice.
The UN’s main judicial body is currently reviewing claims that Israel has committed genocide in the Gaza Strip and has already issued a statement calling on Israeli authorities to refrain from committing acts of genocide.
But while awarding the award to Japan’s Hidankyo may be an uncontroversial choice, it may also focus global attention on the threat of a nuclear conflict that could overshadow the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.
During Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Russian leaders repeatedly hinted that they could be prepared to use tactical nuclear weapons if Western allies increased support for Ukraine in a way that Russia found unacceptable.
These threats succeeded in suppressing Western support due to fears of escalation.
Much of Israel’s strategy in the Middle East involves fears that Iran is pursuing nuclear capabilities, a claim Tehran denies.
The Nobel committee’s decision could reignite debate over the use of nuclear weapons at a time when some countries are envious of their deterrence power.
A total of 286 people, including 197 individuals and 89 organizations, were nominated for this year’s Peace Prize.
Nominations can be made by people with significant authority, including members of national parliaments, governments, and international courts.
Iranian human rights activist Narges Mohammadi received an award in 2023 for his work fighting women’s oppression in Iran.
Mr. Mohammadi is currently imprisoned in Tehran’s Evin Prison and has already served multiple prison sentences for 12 years in connection with his activities.
