CITIZEN PETITION
Abolish the Nobel Prizes
We call for the abolition of the Nobel Prize system and its replacement with a fairer, more transparent system that recognises people’s contributions regardless of gender or region.
Representative
Super Korean (슈퍼한국인)
kaikai.ch · User
About Super KoreanClick to read the introduction and contact detailsClick again to close
Super Korean (슈퍼한국인 / スーパー韓国人) is a Korean user of kaikai.ch, a forum for exchanges between Korea and Japan, and the representative of this petition to abolish the Nobel Prizes.
With an interest in the history, society, culture and international relations of Korea, Japan and other countries, Super Korean has exchanged views and taken part in online debates with people from different backgrounds. Particular interests include the criteria used to assess countries and societies, and the fairness of institutions with international prestige.
Super Korean respects criticism and counterarguments, and seeks open discussion with people who hold different views.
Email iepph4@f5.si
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Why we call for abolition
The facts and sources below provide a basis for assessing this petition. An imbalance alone does not establish discrimination in a particular selection decision. Abolition and the proposed alternative are the positions advocated by this petition. The figures for women cover the period through 2025; the geographic study covers the period through 2024.
Too few women among laureates
Between 1901 and 2025, 67 women received an award, including the economics prize. [1]
We believe this longstanding gender imbalance calls for a closer look at historical barriers. An award system with global influence should recognise contributions from a wider range of people.
A regional imbalance centred on Western Europe and North America
One study found that, between 1901 and 2024, more than 80% of discoveries associated with the Nobel science prizes were concentrated in the USA, UK, Germany, France and Switzerland. [2]
Contributions from Africa, Latin America and Asia deserve fuller recognition. We challenge a system in which unequal research resources and opportunities lead to regional imbalances in awards and recognition.
Selection power concentrated in Europe
Awarding institutions are based in Sweden and Norway. [3]
We believe a selection process concentrated in two countries cannot adequately represent the world. More regions and language communities should have a role in deciding whose contributions are recognised.
Collective achievements credited to a few individuals
The Nobel Foundation’s rules allow no more than three individuals to share a prize. [4]
Research and social change depend on many people working together. Alongside celebrated individuals, teams and contributors whose work receives less attention should also be recognised.
Limited transparency in the selection process
Nomination information remains confidential for 50 years. [5]
We believe such a long period of secrecy makes it difficult for outsiders to assess whether selections are justified. A replacement system should use public criteria and explain its decisions in a way that allows it to be held accountable.
Our conclusion
We call for the abolition of the Nobel Prize system.
We see gender and regional imbalances, concentrated decision-making power and prestige, and limited transparency as problems with the system as a whole. We call for its abolition and a fairer, more transparent alternative that recognises the contributions of people and communities using publicly available criteria.
Support the petitionAbolish the Nobel Prizes
- Abolish the Nobel Prizes
- Fair recognition, regardless of gender
- Recognise contributions from every region
- Honour everyone’s contributions, not just a few names
- Public criteria, transparent selection
- A fairer system of recognition for all