MDG nominerer Minneapolis til Nobels fredspris etter ICE-protester

The Norwegian Green Party (MDG) has nominated the residents of Minneapolis for the Nobel Peace Prize, recognising their resistance to federal immigration enforcement actions by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). This nomination, announced today, February 5, 2026, highlights a growing trend of local communities confronting federal immigration policies and the increasing visibility of civil resistance as a form of peaceful protest.

Minneapolis: A Flashpoint in the US Immigration Debate

Minneapolis has become a focal point in the debate surrounding ICE’s operations, particularly with the implementation of “Operation Metro Surge” in December 2025. This operation, expanding beyond the Twin Cities to encompass all of Minnesota, aims to apprehend and deport undocumented immigrants. The increased ICE presence has sparked significant tension and widespread protests, fueled further by incidents involving ICE agents resulting in fatalities, including Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

Thousands have participated in demonstrations, even in sub-zero temperatures, to protest the federal government’s immigration actions. The city’s police department has been directed not to assist ICE with enforcement efforts, even in maintaining crowd control, signaling a clear stance of non-cooperation.

The Rise of Local Resistance to Federal Immigration Policy

The situation in Minneapolis reflects a broader trend of cities and states pushing back against federal immigration policies. This resistance often manifests as sanctuary city policies, limitations on local law enforcement cooperation with ICE, and community-led support networks for undocumented immigrants. The MDG’s nomination underscores the belief that such local responses represent a legitimate and necessary form of peaceful opposition.

According to MDG’s justice policy spokesperson, Julie E. Stuestøl, Minneapolis responded with “non-violence, solidarity and a democratic backbone worthy of a peace prize.” She further characterized ICE’s actions as resembling “Trump’s Gestapo,” alleging a deliberate strategy to instill fear rather than ensure safety.

MDG’s Broader Nobel Peace Prize Nominations

The nomination of Minneapolis residents is part of a wider slate of candidates put forward by MDG for the Nobel Peace Prize. Other nominees include Greta Thunberg, recognized for her climate activism and advocacy for Palestinians, Moldovan President Maia Sandu for her non-violent pursuit of democracy, the Sudanese Emergency Response Rooms, and American climate scientist James E. Hansen. MDG leader Arild Hermstad previously nominated Maia Sandu for her work promoting democracy and peace.

The deadline for nominations was January 31st. Nominations can come from a limited group, including state leaders, government members, parliamentarians, university professors, and previous Nobel laureates.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Immigration Resistance

The nomination of Minneapolis residents signals a potential shift in the narrative surrounding immigration and civil resistance. It suggests a growing international recognition of the moral and political legitimacy of communities defending themselves against perceived injustices. As federal immigration policies continue to evolve, the role of local communities in shaping the debate and providing support for vulnerable populations is likely to become increasingly important.

Explore further coverage of immigration policy and civil resistance on our website. Share your thoughts on the situation in Minneapolis in the comments below.