The Nobel Committee announced today that the Nobel Peace Prize for 2025 has been awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, recognizing her non-violent efforts to defend democracy and fundamental freedoms in Venezuela under Nicolás Maduro’s authoritarian regime.
In an official statement delivered at the renowned Oslo Hall, Nobel Committee Chair Bernadette Krieger said, “María Corina Machado symbolizes the peaceful resistance that prevents despair in the face of tyranny. Her struggle is not only for Venezuela but for all peoples seeking justice without resorting to violence.”
She added that the prize highlights “the immense power of civil voice in the face of systemic repression.” Machado, a chemical engineer turned prominent politician, led the Venezuelan opposition’s primary elections in 2024, securing over 90% of the votes, but was barred from running for president due to a controversial court ruling.
This prohibition, deemed a violation of human rights by the United Nations and international organizations, has led to the migration of millions of Venezuelans and imposed international sanctions on Maduro’s regime, which is accused of suppressing opposition and committing widespread human rights abuses.
In a recorded speech from a secret location in Venezuela, Machado thanked the committee, stating, “This award is not just for me, but for every Venezuelan who resists with words and peace. We will continue to build democracy until the people prevail.”
She confirmed that she would use the prize money, totaling 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately one million USD), to support civil society organizations in Venezuela.
This announcement comes amid rising international tensions surrounding the alleged Venezuelan elections in July 2024, in which Maduro declared victory with 51% of the vote, a result rejected by the European Union and the United States as neither free nor fair. This has led to widespread protests, resulting in mass arrests and the deaths of dozens of demonstrators.
Established in 1901, the Nobel Prize is awarded annually to individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting global peace. In recent years, former U.S. President Donald Trump was nominated for the prize for his mediation efforts in the Middle East, but did not win.
This year, the committee chose to honor local activists over prominent international figures, reflecting a shift in priorities towards regional issues.
International reactions to the announcement are expected to vary; U.S. President Joe Biden praised Machado, calling her a “heroine of democracy,” while Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yevgheni Miranda labeled her an “agent of American intervention.” The European Union also expressed its full support for the Venezuelan opposition.
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