The 2012 Nobel Peace Prize, awarded to European Union 'for its contribution over six decades to the advancement of peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe', came as a surprise to many.

It was a timely reward, reminding people of the purpose of the EU and the role it has played in establishing the conditions for peace in Europe, just at a time when its popular mandate is being called into question by the countries hit hardest by the economic crisis and by those tax-payers footing the bill for the bailouts.

But the award was met with some scepticism and dismay. Each year the choice has its critics. From Henry Kissinger to President Obama, the Oslo-based Committee has not always been consistent in rewarding the peacemakers of our world.

The prize earns most support from the public when it goes to an individual who has made a significant contribution to preventing bloodshed or taking on an oppressive regime and, in so doing, has put their life at significant risk.

The recognition of Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk, and Betty Williams and Mairead Corrigan was not without controversy, but people could see what the awards were for. Similarly, the prizes for Desmond Tutu, Wangari Maathai, Shirin Ebadi, Liu Xiaobo, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Leymah Gbowee, Tawakkol Karman and Aung San Suu Kyi were roundly appla-uded. These people embody the spirit of the prize.

Next year perhaps the Committee could consider the following nominees:

* Malala Yousafzai, the young blogger from Pakistan who put her life on the line bringing the education of girls to world attention.

* Ronny Edry and Michal Tamir, the co-founders of the Israel loves Iran, Iran loves Israel campaign who have built civil society bridges between the two countries.

* Gershon Baskin and Zakaria al-Qaq for the establishment of the Israel-Palestine Centre for Research and Information and the release of Gilad Shalit

* Daniel Barenboim for his work on the West-East Divan Orchestra and Middle East Peace.

Of course if none appeal, the Nobel Committee could do what it did first in 1948 following the death of Mahatma Gandhi when no award was made that year on the grounds that 'there was no suitable living candidate'.

 

Patricia Lewis, Research Director, International Security, at Chatham House

 

 

(c) 2012 Tribune Media Services