The Nobel Peace Prize for 2025 has been granted to Maria Corina Machado, an opposition leader from Venezuela, as declared on Friday at the Norwegian Nobel Institute in Oslo. The Norwegian Nobel Committee highlighted Machado’s relentless efforts in advocating for democratic rights in Venezuela and striving for a fair and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.
Machado, aged 58, has faced threats to her life, leading her to hide for several months. Following an opposition rally in January, she was detained during the same week Nicolas Maduro commenced his third term as president in a controversial 2024 election. The committee emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals like Machado who courageously stand up against authoritarians.
Previously honored with the Sakharov Prize by the European Parliament in December 2024, along with Edmundo González, who was deemed the rightful winner of the last Venezuelan election by various governments, including Canada, Machado was set to challenge Maduro in the July 2024 election but was disqualified by the government. During a call with the Norwegian Nobel Institute, Machado expressed her humility and gratitude, acknowledging the collective effort to remove Maduro and achieve freedom and peace in Venezuela.
The Nobel laureates, including recipients in medicine, physics, chemistry, and literature this week, will be acknowledged in a ceremony at Oslo City Hall on December 10, coinciding with the anniversary of Alfred Nobel’s death. Each laureate also receives a cash prize equivalent to 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately $1.6 million Cdn).
The committee expressed uncertainty regarding Machado’s attendance at the ceremony due to security concerns. Chosen from a pool of 338 nominees, the United Nations Human Rights Office commended Machado for her recognition, aligning with the Venezuelan people’s desire for free and fair elections and the upholding of civil and political rights.
The news of Machado’s accolade brought hope and pride to Venezuelans residing in Mexico amidst the ongoing turmoil in their homeland. Several individuals shared their admiration for Machado’s resilience and dedication to the cause of freedom in Venezuela.
The relationship between the U.S. and Venezuela, particularly under former President Donald Trump, has been strained, with the U.S. Treasury Department increasing the reward for information leading to Maduro’s capture and engaging in military actions against drug trafficking vessels allegedly linked to the Maduro regime.
Despite Trump’s public campaign to be considered for the Nobel Peace Prize, the committee made its decision before the announcement of a ceasefire and hostage deal under Trump’s initiative to resolve the Gaza conflict. The nomination process remains confidential for 50 years, although nominating entities are free to disclose their submissions.