Like every year, this time too the month of October is most special for those who have contributed in the field of science, literature and peace. In the same month, Nobel Prize Winners are announced, in which those who have done extraordinary work in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, economics and peace are honored. Nobel Prizes are considered the highest recognition of humanity throughout the world. The purpose of these awards is to honor those people who have contributed in making the world better and peaceful.
The administrative management of the Nobel Prizes is done by the Nobel Foundation. This organization ensures that the selection process is completely transparent and fair. Different organizations select winners for different regions, as follows:
- Physics, Chemistry and Economics: Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences
- Medicine: Nobel Assembly of the Karolinska Institute
- Literature: Swedish Academy
- Peace: Committee appointed by the Parliament of Norway (Norwegian Nobel Committee)
Experts in every field select the most qualified candidates in their respective subjects.
Nobel Prize Selection Process
Nobel Prize winners are selected through a long and confidential process, which lasts for about 8 months. The nomination process starts in September. Only a few selected individuals or institutions can nominate someone, such as the President or Prime Minister of a country, members of Parliament, university professors, former Nobel laureates or members of the Nobel Committee. A report on all nominations is prepared with the help of international experts and independent consultants. The report is discussed for months. Candidates whose work and contribution are considered significant are scrutinized in depth. After only a few names are left, the committee selects the final winner by simple majority vote.
Why is the Nobel process so secret?
The Nobel Foundation ensures that the selection process remains completely confidential. The information about who nominated a candidate is not made public for 50 years. Many times even the winners do not know who had nominated them. The purpose of this secrecy is to take decisions free from political or social pressure.
Who is eligible for Nobel Peace Prize?
Only living individuals or active organizations are considered eligible for the Nobel Peace Prize. Persons eligible for nomination include members of a country’s parliament or government, university professors, former Nobel laureates and heads of international institutions. Every year more than 300 nominations are received, but only one or two winners are selected in the final list.

