Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her persistent work to promote democratic principles in Venezuela.
The 58-year-old politician, a prominent figure in the country’s opposition, was recognized for her role in mobilizing citizens during a challenging political period.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee commended Machado for her leadership in fostering unity within Venezuela’s opposition and her commitment to peaceful democratic efforts.
Her work has centered on engaging Venezuelans in the political process amid ongoing national difficulties.
Machado, a former national assembly member from 2011 to 2014, became a key figure in the lead-up to the July 2024 presidential election.
She campaigned extensively across Venezuela, drawing significant crowds. Barred from running by a court decision, she supported former diplomat Edmundo González as the opposition candidate.
The election saw widespread participation, with volunteers collecting vote tallies that suggested González outperformed President Nicolás Maduro. The government, however, upheld Maduro’s victory, leading to a political standoff.
González left the country, and Machado has since remained out of the public eye. The Nobel Committee noted the opposition’s organized and peaceful efforts during the election, despite the contested outcome.
Venezuela faces economic and social challenges, with millions having left the country in recent years.
Maduro, in power since 2013, maintains support from the military and international allies, while the U.S. has increased its naval presence near Venezuela’s coast.
Machado expressed gratitude for the award in a video call with Nobel Institute director Kristian Berg Harpviken, stating, “Oh my God ... I have no words.” On X, she dedicated the prize to Venezuelans and U.S. President Donald Trump for supporting the opposition’s cause.
The United Nations human rights office praised the award as a nod to Venezuelans’ desire for fair elections.
Committee chair Joergen Watne Frydnes expressed hope that it would encourage continued efforts toward democratic progress.
Machado’s recognition has sparked varied responses. Some Venezuelans view her as a unifying force, while others question her past calls for international pressure on the government. Her ties to figures like Trump have also drawn scrutiny.
It remains unclear whether Machado can attend the December 10 ceremony in Oslo due to her current circumstances. The award highlights her significant role in Venezuela’s ongoing political landscape.