Moldovan President Maia Sandu has declined a nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize, saying she is not pursuing the award.
Speaking to Moldova’s TV8 on 5 February, Sandu said the prize should go to those who make real sacrifices for peace.
“I appreciate it, and I am grateful that people follow our country and recognize our courage and resilience,” she said. “But today I was thinking about the [Ukrainian prisoners] who returned home from Russia - these are the people who truly deserve the Peace Prize.”
Sandu added that those who risk their lives to bring peace to their communities and countries are more deserving of the award. “They deserve it first of all. But above all, they deserve peace, and we hope it comes as soon as possible,” she said.
The nomination came from a Norwegian lawmaker, who said Sandu merits consideration for her active role in defending democracy, the rule of law, and peace in Moldova. He noted that she has been “on the frontlines of defending democracy in Europe.”
The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded annually by the Norwegian Nobel Committee to individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting peace, resolving conflicts, or advancing human rights. Hundreds of candidates are nominated each year, but only one or a few receive the award.
