Machado was honoured for her tireless work promoting democratic rights, highlighting her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy
Stockholm: Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced on Friday. Machado was recognised for her unwavering dedication to promoting democratic rights in Venezuela and her tireless struggle to achieve a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.
Nobel Committee’s Official Statement
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In its official press release, the Nobel Committee honoured Machado "for her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy". The committee emphasised that her leadership and courage in the face of escalating authoritarianism serve as an inspiration for democracy activists worldwide.
Machado’s Achievements and Background
Machado, born in 1967, has played a pivotal role in Venezuela’s pro-democracy movement for over two decades. She founded the Atenea Foundation to assist street children and later co-founded the electoral watchdog Súmate, which advocated for free and fair elections in Venezuela. Elected to the National Assembly in 2010, Machado was expelled by the Venezuelan regime in 2014 but continued her efforts from outside formal political office.
She leads the opposition party Vente Venezuela and was instrumental in launching the Soy Venezuela alliance. Despite being barred from running in the 2024 presidential election, Machado campaigned vigorously for democratic change and rallied support for a unified opposition.
Global and Historical Significance
The Nobel Committee highlighted that democracy is facing severe challenges worldwide, describing it as “in retreat internationally.” Machado’s recognition as a Peace laureate underlines the global relevance of Venezuela’s democratic struggle and the crucial role of civic courage and leadership in promoting peaceful political change
Published: 10 Oct 2025, 02:36 pm IST
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