Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has been honored with the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 for her unwavering fight for democracy. The Norwegian Nobel Committee highlighted her essential role in keeping democratic hopes alive in a nation grappling with an oppressive regime. Jorgen Watne Frydnes, speaking for the committee, praised Machado’s “courageous and dedicated advocacy for peace” and stressed the vital importance of voices that “refuse to remain silent” for democracy’s survival.
Machado is recognized as a pivotal “unifying figure” within the Venezuelan opposition, which has been subjected to systematic state repression, including manipulated electoral processes and the jailing of opponents. Since her birth on October 7, 1967, she has been a vocal critic of human rights abuses and a relentless proponent of democratic governance and peace.
Her political journey commenced in 2002 with the co-establishment of Súmate, an organization committed to ensuring electoral integrity. Machado served as a deputy in the National Assembly from 2011 to 2014. Subsequently, in 2013, she founded the Vente Venezuela party, advocating for liberal democratic principles and actively challenging the authoritarian system.
The 2025 Nobel Peace Prize nomination celebrates Machado’s enduring dedication to promoting peace and democratic values in Venezuela. It acknowledges her strong leadership and unyielding adherence to human rights and democratic principles.
Notably, Machado was disqualified from participating in the 2024 presidential elections, despite a landslide victory in the opposition primaries. She then championed Edmundo González, who emerged victorious, though the election’s integrity was questioned due to alleged fraud and limitations on opposition activities. Machado remains a prominent and influential voice for democracy, drawing considerable international focus.