A total of 287 candidates are under consideration for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize, the secretary of the Norwegian Nobel Committee confirmed on Thursday, with Donald Trump likely to be among the nominees. The list comprises 208 individuals and 79 organisations, according to Kristian Berg Harpviken, who assumed his role in January 2025.
Harpviken noted a significant turnover in candidates compared to the previous year, expressing surprise at the level of renewal. Despite a global increase in conflicts and mounting pressure on international cooperation, he emphasised the continued relevance of the prize. 'The Peace Prize is even more important in a period like the one we're living in,' he said, adding that 'there is as much good work, if not more, than ever.'
Leaders from Cambodia, Israel and Pakistan have previously indicated that they nominated Trump for this year's prize, with submissions reportedly made in spring and summer 2025. However, nominations remain secret for 50 years, and Harpviken declined to confirm whether Trump had been nominated.
The committee also expressed deep concern over the health of 2023 laureate Narges Mohammadi, whose condition has worsened after a heart attack in prison. 'Her sister was able to visit her yesterday and the reports are quite alarming,' Harpviken said, urging Iranian authorities to release her for medical treatment.
Other possible nominees include US Senator Lisa Murkowski and Danish MP Aaja Chemnitz, nominated by Norwegian lawmaker Lars Haltbrekken for their work on Arctic peace. The 2026 prize will be announced on 9 October, with the ceremony on 10 December.
