San Francisco, CA – October 10, 2025- As the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize countdown nears its final hours, all eyes are on the Norwegian Nobel Committee—a five-member panel that will decide whether former U.S. President Donald Trump finally gets his long-coveted prize.
Who Are the Five Norwegian Judges?
The committee is appointed by Norway’s parliament (Storting) and traditionally reflects a cross-section of political affiliations. The members are:
- Jørgen Watne Frydnes – The committee’s current chairman, known for human rights advocacy and being the youngest to hold the chair at age 41.
- Åsle Toje – A conservative intellectual, formerly research director at the Nobel Institute; now serves as vice chair.
- Anne Enger – With a background in politics and culture, Enger brings experience from her time in government (including a brief stint as acting prime minister).
- Kristin Clemet – An economist and former education minister linked to Norway’s conservative party.
- Gry Larsen – A humanitarian with prior experience in government and oversight of aid work; she’s outspoken about foreign policy and aid.
Each member among these five Norwegian judges has a six-year term and can be reappointed.
The High Stakes & the Pressure
This year’s Nobel Prize process carries extra weight. Trump’s vocal ambitions and repeated claims to deserve the award have placed the committee under unprecedented scrutiny. Some in Norway even worry about possible reactions if the award goes elsewhere.
the Five Norwegian Judges, for its part, continues to assert neutrality, insisting that its decisions are grounded in principles, not political pressure. “We have to stay strong and principled in our choices … that’s our job,” Frydnes recently told the BBC.
Broader Context & Contenders
- This year’s Nobel field includes 338 nominations, made up of 244 individuals and 94 organizations.
- Other notable contenders include Sudan’s Emergency Response Rooms, a grassroots volunteer group providing aid amid conflict.
- Some analysts argue Trump’s chances are weakened by the timing and nature of his claims—raising questions about whether influence, ambition, or genuine peace efforts will tip the balance.
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