On February 2, Moldovan President Maia Sandu was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by Arild Hermstad, a member of the Norwegian Parliament and leader of the Green Party. The Norwegian politician proposed Sandu’s candidacy in recognition of her efforts to defend democracy, the rule of law, and peace in Moldova.
Hermstad noted that Moldova has faced documented attempts to influence elections, disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and destabilising actions by Russia. These efforts aimed to install a leadership favourable to the Kremlin. Hermstad described these actions as part of Russia’s broader hybrid warfare strategy in several former Soviet states.
“I nominated Moldovan President Maia Sandu for the Nobel Peace Prize because she has been at the forefront of defending democracy in Europe,” said Hermstad. He emphasised that Russia’s ongoing attempts to destabilise former Soviet states pose serious threats to peace and stability in Europe. Hermstad praised Sandu for responding to Russian provocations through peaceful means and for her role in consolidating the rule of law, protecting electoral processes, and maintaining a democratic path.
Additionally, Hermstad highlighted Sandu’s efforts to distance Moldova from Russian imperialism and strengthen ties with Western democracies. “Democracy is an essential condition for genuine peace. Maia Sandu has played a decisive role in thwarting Russia’s attempts to undermine Moldovan democracy. That is why I believe she deserves the Nobel Peace Prize,” he stated.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee receives hundreds of nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize each year. In 2025, there were 338 candidates, with a record 376 in 2016. The committee reviews applications, creates a shortlist evaluated by experts, and typically announces the laureate or laureates in early October.
