Elly Schlein Declares Italy Cannot Nominate Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize

Schlein Rejects Trump Nobel Candidacy for Italy

Elly Schlein, the secretary of Italy's Democratic Party (PD), has publicly stated that Italy cannot and should not nominate Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Her comments, made on January 24, 2026, at the Democratic Party club in Sutri, came in response to earlier remarks by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Meloni had reportedly expressed a desire for Trump to receive the prestigious award, connecting it to his potential role in achieving 'just and lasting peace' in Ukraine.

Arguments Against Nomination

Schlein articulated strong opposition to the idea, asserting that Italy 'does not deserve to sink so low' as to propose Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. She highlighted past actions attributed to Trump, including the deployment of an armed federal agency in Minneapolis and incidents involving the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The PD leader underscored the importance of Italy upholding international law and defending the United Nations, contrasting this with what she described as Trump's 'law of the strongest' approach. Schlein also criticized what she termed Italy's 'subordination to Trump,' warning of a significant cost to the country's credibility.

Political Context in Italy

As the leader of the main opposition party, Elly Schlein has been the secretary of the Democratic Party since March 12, 2023. She is recognized as the first female leader of the party and is known for her progressive political stances. Her statement reflects a clear divergence from the views reportedly expressed by Prime Minister Meloni, highlighting ongoing political debates within Italy regarding international relations and the country's foreign policy alignment.

Nobel Peace Prize Nomination Process

The Nobel Peace Prize nomination process allows for various individuals to submit candidates. Eligible nominators include:

• Members of national assemblies and national governments (cabinet members/ministers) of sovereign states
• Current heads of state
• University professors in relevant fields
• Former Nobel Peace Prize laureates

This framework indicates that a head of government, such as Prime Minister Meloni, would technically be among those qualified to make a nomination or express such a wish.