President Barack Obama Receives Nobel Peace Prize
For His Extraordinary Efforts to Strengthen International Diplomacy and Cooperation Between Peoples
The announcement came as a surprise to many, including White House staff and the First Family. The Peace Prize is traditionally considered an award for individuals that have significantly advanced peace. With two wars in progress, many critics feel the prize was not warranted or deserved. Others have mentioned his nomination itself was premature, as he took office just under two weeks before the February 1st deadline.
However, the Peace Prize committee's website states that the prize is intended for those who "who shall have done the most or the best work" for world peace, reducing militarization and increasing peaceful talks. Foreign leaders, including Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak, have supported the award, citing Obama's dedication to further peace talks in the Middle East and denuclearize the world at large.
Not all officials are as hopeful, though, especially in downtrodden or militarized regions such as Palastine and Pakistan. Many feel his dedication to peace is not enough and that his actions have had no results.
In the US, people are also split, with even his supporters questioning the award. Although most criticism focuses on the prematurity of the award, the annoucement was followed by a storm of comments on social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook and Digg. The displeasure ranges from mild to extreme, with most simply questioning the award and others insisting he return it.
Bobbie Laughman (@ThatBobbieGirl) from Pennsylvania wrote, "Barack #Obama wins the #Nobel Peace Prize for making promises. If he has any honor, he'll refuse it. #giveitback."
Despite confusion, supporters are still thrilled for the win. Trekkor02 (@trekkor02) in Colorado wrote, "Barack Obama Wins the nobel peace prize...how awesome is that?"
Later this morning, President Obama will address the nation in a broadcast about this award.
Published by Rebecca Mastey
Rebecca has been writing for fun and profit for the past 5 years and specializes in politics, technology, parenting and cuisine. Presently, she is researching and writing about sustainable technologies. View profile
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