Edward Snowden nominated for Nobel Peace Prize

Edward Snowden has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by two Norwegian lawmakers, who say the NSA whistleblower contributed to “transparency and global stability” by revealing the depth and sophistication of the global surveillance apparatus.

Snorre Valen and Baard Vegar Solhjell, parliamentarians from Norway’s Socialist Left Party, announced the nomination on Facebook on Wednesday.

Noting that “peace is more than simply the absence of war,” the MPs said that Snowden had contributed to global security by revealing “the nature and technological prowess of modern surveillance.”

“The level of sophistication and depth of surveillance that citizens all over the world are subject to, has stunned us, and stirred debate all over the world. By doing this, he has contributed critical knowledge about how modern surveillance and intelligence directed towards states and citizens is carried out,” a statement by the Norwegian MPs said.

They added that there could be some short term damage to security interests of some countries and they don’t condone his actions.

“We are, however, convinced that the public debate and changes in policy that have followed in the wake of Snowden’s whistle-blowing has contributed to a more peaceful, stable and peaceful world order.”

Each year the Norwegian Nobel Committee invites ‘qualified people’ from national assemblies and governments, courts, universities and former laureates to submit nominations.

Snowden was nominated last year, but missed the deadline – more on that coverage HERE

The deadline to nominate candidates for the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize is Saturday. The winner is announced on the second Friday of October each year.

Professor Stefan Svallfors said giving Snowden the Nobel nod could “save the prize from the disrepute incurred by the hasty and ill-conceived decision” to give the 2009 award to Barack Obama.