News of Norway, issue 6, 1999
Developments over the last year, with large groups of people being driven from their homes in Kosovo, East Timor and Africa, have demonstrated the need for efficient humanitarian organisations that can contribute to the alleviation of human sufferings," the Prime Minister said.
Important channel for Norwegian humanitarian assistance
"With its global network, its independent position and its will and ability to work in particularly difficult areas, Doctors Without Borders holds a very important role in the international humanitarian field. I see this award as a recognition of all individuals who courageously engage themselves in humanitarian efforts," Mr. Bondevik continued.
The Prime Minister said Doctors Without Borders is an important channel for Norwegian humanitarian assistance. "Over the last couple of years, more than 100 million Norwegian Kroner have been distributed via this organization, which since 1996 has had its own office in Norway," Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik said.
Founder moved by Peace Prize
Bernard Kouchner, one of the founders of Doctors Without Borders, said he was deeply moved by the organization's receipt of the award. Kouchner, France's former Health Minister, is now the UN head in Kosovo. After many years of Peace Prizes with a political profile, the Nobel Committee has returned to its old tradition of lauding a dedicated humanitarian effort. "Many were worthy among the 136 candidates this year, but Doctors Without Borders deserves it the most," said Prof. Francis Sejersted after announcing the winner of this year's Nobel Peace Prize.