Regardless of whether he deserved the Nobel Peace Prize, it still does come with certain responsibilities. The Bush years were notorious for embarrassments like this. Many had hoped the new president was going to be an improvement in this area but apparently not.
The White House has cancelled many of the events peace prize laureates traditionally submit to, including a dinner with the Norwegian Nobel committee, a press conference, a television interview, appearances at a children’s event promoting peace and a music concert, as well as a visit to an exhibition in his honour at the Nobel peace centre.
He has also turned down a lunch invitation from the King of Norway.
According to a poll published by the daily tabloid VG, 44% of Norwegians believe it was rude of Obama to cancel his scheduled lunch with King Harald, with only 34% saying they believe it was acceptable.
More on Obama’s acceptance speech today here.
