Greta Thunberg’s relentless activism for climate change could have earned her the prestigious award, says critic.
Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov, two courageous journalists, are deserving recipients of this year’s Nobel Peace Prize. Their fearless campaigns for press freedom have earned global recognition, and many offer their congratulations. However, it seems the Nobel committee may have overlooked a momentous opportunity by not considering those leading the charge for climate stability.
As the world prepares for the pivotal Cop26 conference in Glasgow on November 1, the stakes could not be higher. This gathering will determine whether global leaders are truly committed to preventing a climate-induced collapse of our civilization. Amidst this critical moment, the Nobel Peace Prize could have been awarded to those tirelessly working to avert such a catastrophe.
Greta Thunberg stands out as a key figure in this battle. Nominated for the prize, Thunberg’s journey began in August 2018 when, at the age of 15, she began skipping school to protest for climate action. Her tweet, “We kids most often don’t do what you tell us to do. We do as you do. And since you grown-ups don’t give a damn about my future, I won’t either,” marked the beginning of what would grow into a global movement. Despite political inaction, Thunberg has not relented, using her platform to inspire young people around the world and challenge world leaders with her direct, no-nonsense speeches.
Thunberg’s ongoing activism and the “Greta effect” have not only awakened a generation to the urgency of climate change but also highlighted the failures of those in power to take meaningful action. The Nobel Peace Prize could have been a timely acknowledgment of her efforts to galvanize the world toward climate justice.