Malala Wins the Nobel Prize for Peace.

Malala Yousafzai

In receiving the Nobel Prize for Peace, Malala Yousafzai joins the company of the Dalai Lama, Mother Theresa, Kofi Annan, Neslon Mandela, Kim Dai-Jung and many others. Every year, since 1895, the prize is given to the person or group of persons who have done the most or the best work to bring countries together or to promote peace. The awardees get a medal, a diploma and about US$1 million.

Read more about Malala's win - click the links I've provided. The CBC gives a quick summary of Malala's story, plus they have a video of her response to the announcement. The Gaurdian quotes an Indian community leader who says that Malala is a living representation of Ghandi's message of non-violent resistance. Craig Kielburger has posted a congratulatory message.

Remember that there are always multiple perspectives to any story. This article by The Guardian mentions that one point of view questions the motives of the West for granting this award to Malala. When I say questions the motives, I mean this point of view is distrustful of the West. Someone who holds this point of view might believe that the West is not thinking purely about the work Malala has done for children's rights, but that they might have something to gain from giving this award to Malala.

Interesting fact: Did you know that Mahatma Gandhi never received the Nobel Prize for Peace?

Extend your thinking: How has Malala promoted peace?