In a surprising turn of events, the Nobel Foundation has decided to reverse its earlier decision to invite the ambassadors of Russia, Belarus, and Iran to this year's Nobel Prize awards ceremony in Stockholm. The decision comes after facing widespread criticism and political backlash.
In 2022, the Nobel Foundation had chosen to exclude the ambassadors of Russia and Belarus from the awards ceremony due to the conflict in Ukraine. However, in a recent statement on August 31, the foundation announced its intention to invite these nations' ambassadors, along with Iran's envoy, to this year's prize award ceremonies scheduled for December. The foundation's rationale behind this move was an attempt to uphold the inclusivity of the Nobel Prize, even for those nations whose values may not align with its principles.
This announcement triggered strong reactions from leaders of several Swedish political parties who declared their intention to boycott the Nobel Prize ceremonies if the invitations were extended to the diplomats of these countries.
In response to the mounting pressure and criticism, the Nobel Foundation issued a statement on September 2, acknowledging the concerns raised within Sweden.
"We recognize the strong reactions in Sweden. We, therefore, choose to repeat last year's exception to regular practice – that is, to not invite the ambassadors of Russia, Belarus, and Iran to the Nobel Prize award ceremony in Stockholm," the foundation stated.
The Nobel Prize is one of the most prestigious recognitions in various fields, including physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and economics. The prize winners are announced in early October, and five of the six Nobel prizes are traditionally awarded in Stockholm every year. The nomination process for Nobel laureates is kept confidential for 50 years, ensuring that the selection remains free from external influence and pressures. Meanwhile, the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded separately in Oslo, Norway, with its own set of festivities.
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