Pandemonium Over the Sincerity of Obama's Choice
By Aya Kordy
In 1895, the foundations for the Nobel Peace Prize were created when Alfred Nobel wrote his last will, leaving much of his enormous fortune to the establishment of the Nobel Prize. Alfred Nobel was a Swedish engineer, a weaponry manufacturer and the inventor of dynamite. Ever since 1901, the Nobel Peace Prize has been honoring men and women from all over the world for outstanding achievements in physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peacemaking.
Many world leaders have won the Nobel Peace Prize in the past for their outstanding contributions to their world. For example, leaders such as President Jimmy Carter sponsored numerous peace treaties, formal Vice-President Al Gore made efforts in creating a world awareness of the rapidly changing climate, and both President Anwar El Sadat and President Menachem Begin signed the Camp David Accord creating peace between Egypt and Israel.
In October, members of the Nobel Peace Committee decided to award President Barrack Obama the Nobel Peace Prize. The decision stunned many around the United States and the world, including those at the award ceremony who were caught on camera gasping when Obama’s name was announced. Members of the Norwegian Nobel Committee said, “Our choice could be seen as an early vote of confidence in Obama, for intending to build global support in his policies. Our choice was meant to build momentum behind Obama’s initiatives to reduce nuclear arms, ease tensions with the Muslim world, and stress diplomacy and cooperation rather than unilateralism.”
After only hours from receiving the news, Obama responded, “I do not feel that I deserve to be in the company of so many transformative figures that have been honored by this prize.” He added, “I will accept this award as a call to action, a call for all nations to confront the challenges of the 21st century.”
Many were stunned by the surprising choice so early in the Obama presidency, which has yet to produce distinct achievements in peacemaking. Several objected to the choice of Obama, as he still oversees wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. While others contended that Obama won the prize as a result of his “star power” rather than significant accomplishments. Surprisingly enough, even former Polish President Lech Walesa, who won the prize in 1983, questioned whether Obama deserved it now. “So soon. Too early. He has no contribution so far. He is still at an early stage. He is only beginning to act,” Walesa said.
Some view Obama’s nomination as an ideal choice, for Obama in less than a year was loved by millions, and he sent his message of peace all over the world. On the other hand, many regard Obama’s efforts as being at their earlier stages and are yet to materialize into concrete and measurable achievements. Whether or not Obama really deserves the Nobel Peace Prize will be determined solely by his actions in the upcoming four years.
ليست هناك تعليقات:
إرسال تعليق