Insight writer Kelly Fisher, a 2018-2019 Fulbright Recipient and current MA student at PRIO, gives his personal thoughts and reflections on Nobel Peace Prize awarded this week to the UN’S World Food Programme.
Easily one of the greatest highlights of my life was having the chance to attend the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in 2018. It was the year that Denis Mukwege and Nadia Murad were both awarded the prize for their important work as advocates against the use of sexual violence in war.
Being in that room and listening to their powerful words inspired in me a sense of purpose to become a better ally and advocate against some of the larger problems our world is confronting, including the fight for gender equality.
Two years later, I find myself still in Norway pursuing gender studies, which was partially inspired by my experiences during the many festivities and events that occurred during the Oslo Peace Days in 2018.
A Different Year
This year, the week surrounding the Peace Prize’s ceremony named Oslo Peace Days—like much of our world—was different. That didn’t manage to damper the important discussions and dialogues that still have taken place during the 2020 Oslo Peace Days.
From a conversation with important youth activists who highlight the role of youth and young people in building and sustaining peaceful movements, to reflections about the role and impact of the UN during its 75th year of existence, the programme has delivered inspiring moments and important reflections. (See the full programme for the week here.)
UN’s World Food Programme
Of course, the highlight of the week was the delivery of the Peace Prize, which this year was given to the UN’S World Food Programme. At a time when hunger and risk of famine is increasing, the selection of the UN World Food Programme recognizes the important work this UN agency does, and its role in maintaining stability and peace in many parts of the world.
It is fitting that this week is the week where we at Insight Magazine are looking at the important work being done by women around the world to boost gender equality.
I was fortunate enough to speak with someone who I greatly look up to, Torunn L. Tryggestad, who has been engaged and involved in advocating for the UN Women, Peace, and Security agenda from its earliest days. I hope that this interview, and the many other great articles we have this week are inspiring and thought provoking. •
