The Nobel Foundation has reaffirmed that a Nobel Prize cannot be transferred, shared, or passed on to another individual, even symbolically, stressing that the honour remains permanently attached to the original recipient.
Eko Hot News reports that the clarification followed widespread attention after Venezuelan opposition figure and Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado presented her Nobel medal to President Donald Trump during a recent meeting at the White House.
In a statement, the Nobel Foundation emphasised that the prize is awarded strictly in accordance with the will of Alfred Nobel and is intended to recognise individuals who have made exceptional contributions to humanity.
The Foundation explained that while laureates are free to give away their physical medal, diploma, or prize money, such actions do not alter the official status of the Nobel Prize or transfer the title of laureate.
According to the Nobel statutes, once a Nobel Prize has been announced and awarded, it is final and cannot be reassigned, revoked, or inherited by another person under any circumstances.
The Nobel Foundation noted that symbolic gestures involving Nobel medals do not change official records and should not be interpreted as a transfer of recognition or honour.
It further stated that the integrity and credibility of the Nobel Prize depend on strict adherence to its long-standing rules, which prevent the dilution or politicisation of the award.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee also aligned with the Foundation’s position, reaffirming that the Nobel Peace Prize remains solely attributed to the original recipient named at the time of the award.
Officials emphasised that the Nobel Prize is a personal recognition tied to the laureate’s achievements, actions, and impact, not a transferable endorsement or a political statement.
The clarification has drawn global attention, particularly amid ongoing international debates surrounding political symbolism and high-profile public gestures involving globally recognised honours.
Observers say the statement reinforces the independence of the Nobel institution and protects the historical value of the award from misinterpretation or misuse.
The Nobel Foundation concluded by reiterating its commitment to preserving the prestige, originality, and credibility of the Nobel Prize across all categories.
The Foundation added that a public understanding of the Nobel rules is essential to maintaining respect for one of the world’s most prestigious honours.
