International

Ronald van Raak supports the nomination of Edward Snowden for the Nobel Prize for Peace. The Norwegian parliamentarians Bård Vegar Solhjell and Snorre Valen proposed the whistleblower yesterday, and SP Member of Parliament Van Raak has written to the Nobel Peace Prize Committee to give his backing. Snowden’s nomination is also supported by SP Senator Arjan Vliegenthart.

In his letter Van Raak stated that ‘Terrorism poses a serious threat to our democracy and the rule of law. Mr. Snowden has however demonstrated that the joint struggle of states against organizations with terrorist intent can also lead to abuse of power that can undermine our democracy and rule of law and which in fact undermines the confidence of citizens in their government. Mr. Snowden has acted in view of the common good, knowing that his actions could have major consequences for his personal life. His actions led to a global public debate on cooperation between countries and a new and better balance between security and privacy.’

Nominations and declarations of support for this Nobel Prize can be presented until February 1st.