The Nobel Peace Prize for 2012 was awarded to the European Union (EU).

In its announcement of this year’s award, the Norwegian Nobel Committee draws attention to the fact that the stabilising role played by the EU has helped to transform most of Europe from a continent of war to a continent of peace.

“Today’s announcement is clear recognition of the significance of the EU for ensuring lasting stability and security in Europe,” Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg said. 

The Nobel Peace Prize is presented in Oslo on 10 December every year.

The 2009 Nobel Peace Prize 

was awarded to U.S.

The Nobel Committee said President Obama won it for "his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and co-operation between peoples".

The committee highlighted Mr Obama's efforts to support international bodies and promote nuclear disarmament.

The Nobel Committee's decision drew mixed reactions from US commentators and editorial writers across the political spectrum while the response from U.S. allies was generally positive.

Obama accepted the prize in Oslo on the December 10, 2009. In a 36-minute speech, he discussed the tensions between war and peace and the idea of a "just war".