Venezuelan Opposition Leader María Corina Machado Wins 2025 Nobel Peace Prize

In a historic announcement, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her unwavering dedication to promoting democratic rights and advocating for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy in Venezuela.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee hailed Machado as “one of the most extraordinary examples of civilian courage in Latin America in recent times.” Her activism gained international attention after she was barred from running in the 2024 presidential election—a move widely regarded as politically motivated by the Maduro-aligned judiciary. Despite these challenges, Machado continued to lead the opposition movement from hiding, symbolizing resilience against authoritarianism.

Her persistent efforts played a key role in presenting a significant electoral challenge to President Nicolás Maduro, who, despite opposition gains observed by international monitors, retained power with support from the military and allied countries, including China and Russia.

In her acceptance speech, Machado dedicated the Nobel Prize to the Venezuelan people and expressed gratitude to former U.S. President Donald Trump for his “decisive support” in the pro-democracy movement. She credited Trump’s administration for sanctions and diplomatic pressure that brought global attention to Venezuela’s struggle for freedom and democracy.

The Nobel Peace Prize will be formally presented to María Corina Machado on December 10, 2025, in Oslo, Norway. Her recognition marks a significant moment in Latin American politics and a strong acknowledgment of the courage displayed by civilians standing against authoritarian regimes.