United States President Barack Obama congratulated anti-child labour activist Kailash Satyarthi and Pakistani teenager Malala Yousafzai on winning the Nobel Peace Prize, saying this is a victory for all who strive to uphold the dignity of every human being.

"On behalf of Michelle, myself and all Americans, I want to congratulate Malala Yousafzai and Kailash Satyarthi on winning the Nobel Peace Prize. Today's (Friday) announcement is a victory for all who strive to uphold the dignity of every human being," Obama said in a statement yesterday.

"In recognising Malala and Kailash, the Nobel Committee reminds us of the urgency of their work to protect the rights and freedoms of all our young people and to ensure they have the chance to fulfill their God-given potential, regardless of their background, or gender, or station in life," said Obama, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009.