Norwegian officials have rejected any suggestion that the government controls the Nobel Peace Prize. The statement followed President Trump’s crude remarks expressing frustration over the award decision.
The Norwegian government stressed that the Nobel Committee operates independently. Officials said political leaders have no role in selecting laureates.
Trump’s comments drew sharp criticism in Norway. The remarks were widely viewed as an attack on the prize’s integrity.
Norway has long defended the independence of the Nobel process. The Peace Prize is awarded by a five-member committee appointed by the Storting, Norway’s parliament.
The committee’s decisions are final and cannot be overridden by the government. This structure is designed to shield the selection from political pressure.
Norwegian politicians from across the spectrum backed the committee’s autonomy. They urged the public to respect the prize’s established procedures.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between Trump and Norway over the Peace Prize. It remains unclear whether the remarks will affect bilateral relations.
