In Oslo, the Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her fight for democracy in Venezuela. Machado, currently in hiding due to threats from President Nicolás Maduro’s government, dedicated the prize to the Venezuelan people and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Machado expressed humility, calling the recognition “the achievement of a whole society” and stressing that the fight for democracy extends beyond her alone. She also highlighted the importance of international support, citing allies such as President Trump and other democratic nations in advancing freedom.
The Nobel Committee described Machado as “a brave and committed champion of peace,” praising her efforts to advance democratic rights under political repression. The committee highlighted the global retreat of democracy, noting that freedoms to speak, vote, and be represented are essential for peace both within and between nations.
Machado has been active in Venezuelan politics and civil society for decades. She founded the Atenea Foundation in 1992 to help street children and co-founded Súmate to promote free elections. Elected to the National Assembly in 2010, she was expelled in 2014. She later led the Vente Venezuela party and helped form the Soy Venezuela alliance, uniting opposition groups across political lines.
The official award ceremony is scheduled for December 10 in Oslo, where Machado will be formally recognized for her contributions to democracy and peace.
