Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado awarded 2025 Nobel Peace Prize

International Desk | PNN:
Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her extraordinary role in restoring democracy in Venezuela. The Norwegian Nobel Committee announced the decision at a press conference held at the Nobel Institute in Oslo, Norway, on Friday.

The Nobel Committee stated, “María Corina Machado is honored with the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her unwavering contribution to establishing the democratic rights of the Venezuelan people and for leading the peaceful transition from authoritarian rule to democracy.”

In the 2024 Venezuelan presidential election, Machado attempted to run as the opposition coalition candidate but was disqualified by the Maduro government. She subsequently supported an alternative candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. President Nicolás Maduro claimed victory with 51 percent of the vote, but the opposition alleged election fraud, asserting that Gonzalez was the true winner.

Following the election, nationwide protests erupted, prompting Maduro’s government to adopt a harsh crackdown, detaining hundreds of opposition leaders and activists. During this period, Machado faced assassination threats and was forced into hiding for an extended time.

Jørgen Watne Fridness, chairman of the Nobel Committee, said, “When authoritarian power seizes control, it is humanity’s duty to recognize the courageous defenders of freedom. Machado’s bravery and determination have inspired millions.”

The 2024 Nobel Peace Prize was previously awarded to the Japanese organization Nihon Hidankyo, which has long advocated for a nuclear-free world.

Political analysts believe Machado’s Nobel victory has ignited a renewed sense of hope for the movement to restore democracy in Venezuela.