María Corina Machado wins Nobel Peace Prize for democracy work in Venezuela
- María Corina Machado received the Nobel Peace Prize for her tireless advocacy for democratic rights in Venezuela.
- The Nobel Committee highlighted the global decline of democratic governance as part of their reasoning for the award.
- Her recognition serves as a beacon of hope for the Venezuelan people in their ongoing struggle against dictatorship.
In Oslo, on October 10, 2025, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her dedication to advancing democratic rights in Venezuela. The Norwegian Nobel Committee emphasized her significant role as a unifying figure in the opposition movement against the country's authoritarian regime. Machado, who has faced threats and intimidation from the Maduro government, has been in hiding since August 2024, yet remains committed to the cause of restoring democracy to Venezuela. The Nobel Committee's announcement came at a time when democracy is seen to be in retreat globally, with increasing authoritarianism challenging democratic norms. Jørgen Watne Frydens, the chair of the committee, articulated that Machado’s award is a recognition of both her personal courage and a broader message about the importance of democracy as a precursor to lasting peace. The committee's decision reverses the narrative of speculation surrounding former U.S. President Donald Trump, who had also hoped for the prize due to his diplomatic efforts over the past year. Machado's efforts include establishing the Atenea Foundation in 1992, which focuses on aiding street children in Caracas. Despite her efforts leading to political mobilization, the 2024 presidential election was marked by controversy, with the Maduro administration's victory declared illegitimate by many countries, including the U.S. The situation in Venezuela has demanded unwavering activism as the nation grapples with a humanitarian crisis and a dictatorship that imposes dire restrictions on political freedom and civil rights. In her response to receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, Machado stated it serves to remind Venezuelans they are not alone in their struggle for freedom. The recognition encapsulates two decades of her political activism and symbolizes hope for the future of democracy in Venezuela amidst adversity. The Nobel Peace Prize not only honors her contributions but also shines a light on the broader issues of democratic governance and human rights in countries under authoritarian rule.