The University of Nicosia proposed that this year’s Nobel Peace Prize be awarded to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), and submitted a reasoned proposal to the Norwegian Nobel Institute. The proposal was submitted by the Rector of the University, Prof. Pouyioutas, pursuant to a unanimous decision of the Senate and following an initiative by the School of Law, in co-operation with the Rector, as a recognition of the contribution of the ECHR in the safeguarding of human rights, and the promotion of equality, democracy and peace.
As explained in the reasoned proposal, during its six decades of operation, ECHR has promoted a culture of respect for the rule of law and democratic principles, thereby contributing to peace and stability in post-war Europe. The mechanisms of the ECHR providing for individual, as well as inter-state, recourse has been the model for all modern mechanisms for the protection of human rights, and helped define the notion of state liability at an international level.
Other than the University of Nicosia, both the Cypriot and Greek Governments have announced their decision to propose the ECHR for the Nobel Peace Prize 2020.