The Nobel Foundation has extended invitations to Russia, Belarus, and Iran for Stockholm's Nobel Prize banquet after they were excluded last year due to the Ukraine war and human rights

concerns. The foundation emphasized its desire to engage even with those who do not share the Nobel Prize's values.

This year's decision has sparked controversy, with some critics calling it "extremely inappropriate" and accusing the foundation of setting a "dangerous precedent." Swedish MEP Karin Karlsbro expressed concern that inviting these nations undermined democratic values, especially amid ongoing conflicts and human rights issues.

Additionally, Jimmie Akesson, leader of the Sweden Democrats party, received an invitation for the first time but declined to attend due to a busy schedule. The Sweden Democrats had been ostracized for years for their historical association with Nazi sympathizers but garnered significant support in the previous year's general election.

The Nobel Foundation's executive director, Vidar Helgesen, defended the invitations as an attempt to promote dialogue and understanding in an increasingly divided world.

The Nobel Prize ceremonies are held in Stockholm, except for the Nobel Peace Prize, which is awarded in Oslo. Last year, Russia and Belarus were excluded due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and Iran was not invited because of its human rights record. Photo by Hansbaer, Wikimedia commons.