Snowden awarded ‘Alternative Nobel Prize’

Edward Snowden. Photo: The Guardian/TT

US whistleblower Edward Snowden has been awarded The Right Livelihood Award, commonly known as the Alternative Nobel Prize in Stockholm. The ceremony began after a top Green Party politician said the American should be granted asylum in Sweden, sparking a global debate.

"Edward Snowden has provided a huge service to the citizens of this planet," said Jakob von Uexkll, who announced the award.

"Mr. Snowden, your Right Livelihood Award is waiting for you! We trust that Sweden will make it possible for you to collect your award here in Stockholm in person!" he added.

Snowden has been holed up in Russia since June 2013, after he leaked top secret NSA documents to journalists. He faces up to three decades in prison.

"Edward Snowdens actions have led to an intense global debate on appropriate limits of government surveillance and a reaffirmation of the right to privacy in the digital age. In many countries, laws are now being proposed to restrain mass surveillance, and companies look into implementing new technologies and routines to better protect their customers data," saud Uexkll on behalf of the Right Livelihood Award's committee.

Snowden gave his reaction to the award in a video as well as a written statement.

The whistleblower said he recognised the importance of the Right Livelihood Award as "a vindication for everyone who came before to raise awareness to issues" of privacy and mass surveillance.

The Right Livelihood Award honours those who work to improve the lives of others and is traditionally handed out at Stockholm's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

When Snowden was announced as this year's winner the Swedish foreign ministrysaid it was banningthe civil rights group from making the announcement at their department in the capital.

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Snowden awarded 'Alternative Nobel Prize'