"This is the third-highest number of nominations we have had, " according to the secretary of the Nobel committee.

The five-member Nobel committee never reveals the names of the nominees and keeps its list secret for 50 years. However, those who are entitled to submit nominations are free to reveal their choices.

Al Gore has been nominated by two Norwegian MPs for his efforts to limit global warming, while Bolivian president Evo Morales has been nominated by Indian and Latin American organisations.

Fans of US chat show host Oprah Winfrey have been petitioning to have her nominated after the opening of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy in South Africa for bright girls from poor families.

The winner of the prize will be announced in October.