Nobel Peace Prize winner: European Union

Shrine of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France. Photo: Wikipedia

EU won the Nobel Peace Prize for 2012 on Friday.

"The Union has been operating for more than six decades for the sake of peace," the President of the Commission which decides on the identity of the winner, Torbajoren Jaglad explained the choice. "It worked for the principles of reconciliation, democracy and human rights throughout Europe. The role it played in creating stability in Europe has turned it from a continent which was torn and fractured by wars, to a continent of peace."

Jaglad added: "We want to send a message to Europe: you must do all you can to maintain what you have accomplished. This award is a reminder to everyone what might be the loss if this union will be dissolved."

President of the European Parliament, Martin Schulz, welcomed the decision. "We are proud and very excited to receive this recognition," Schultz squeaked in his Twitter account. "Our union is activated by the principles of reconciliation, and it should serve as an inspiration. This is a unique project which managed to exchange war for peace."

Beyond the prestigious title, the EU is expected to also win a grant for the amount of $ 1.2 million.

However, this was a rather strange decision and caused quite a few eyebrows to be raised, since up until now it was customary to give the prize to individuals who promote peace and not to countries.

As recalled, a few years ago the prize was awarded to U.S. President Barack Hussein Obama, even though he was still only at the beginning of his term.

The EU currently has 27 members in total.

The purpose of its establishment was to allow free movement of people, goods, capital and services free of customs duties between member countries. Since its inception, it has engraved on its banner activity in foreign policy and defense, economy, health, culture, science and more.

'בחדרי' גם ברשתות החברתיות - הצטרפו!