VOICED: Activists say Nobel award could help free Chinese dissident

The Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo has sparked global protests demanding his release. Liu is serving an 11-year sentence for subversion, and China views the award as interference in its internal affairs. His wife is under house arrest, and supporters face travel restrictions. International pressure may influence China's decision, as having a Nobel laureate in prison is embarrassing. The award ceremony will proceed without Liu or his family, but his brother acknowledges the global support for Liu's nonviolent democratic efforts. China's political reform remains stagnant amid leadership changes.

How might the award impact China's international standing?

What is the significance of the Nobel Peace Prize in the context of democratic reform?