Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights. Her selection marks the latest instance of the prestigious award honoring female campaigners dedicated to strengthening democratic principles globally.
Oslo, Norway – Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced Friday, October 10, 2025, recognizing her unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights in her home country. Her selection marks the latest instance of the prestigious award honoring female campaigners dedicated to strengthening democratic principles globally.
The Committee highlighted Machado’s “courageous and persistent struggle against authoritarianism and for the establishment of free and fair elections in Venezuela.” Her activism, spanning decades, has often placed her at odds with the ruling government, leading to political disqualifications and personal risk.
“Ms. Machado’s unwavering dedication to democratic ideals, often in the face of severe repression and personal sacrifice, serves as an inspiration to all who believe in the power of peaceful resistance,” stated Berit Reiss-Andersen, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, during the announcement. “Her voice has been a beacon for millions yearning for a society where human rights are respected and the will of the people is sovereign.”
Machado, a former legislator and prominent figure in the Venezuelan opposition, has consistently advocated for a peaceful transition to democracy, emphasizing the importance of institutional integrity and the restoration of fundamental liberties. Her campaign has focused on civic participation, international observation of elections, and an end to political persecution.
A Legacy of Female Democracy Advocates
Machado’s Nobel Peace Prize continues a growing trend of the Committee recognizing the pivotal role women play in democracy building and conflict resolution. She joins a distinguished list of female laureates honored for their efforts in similar arenas.
In 2011, Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberian peace activist Leymah Gbowee, and Yemeni journalist Tawakkol Karman were jointly awarded the prize for their non-violent struggle for the safety of women and for women’s rights to full participation in peace-building work. More recently, Filipino-American journalist Maria Ressa received the prize in 2021 for her efforts to safeguard freedom of expression, and Iranian human rights advocate Narges Mohammadi was honored in 2023 for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her struggle to promote human rights and freedom for all.
“This prize is not just for me; it is for every Venezuelan who has dreamed of and fought for freedom, justice, and democracy,” Machado said in a virtual statement following the announcement. “It is a recognition of our collective struggle and a call to the world to stand with those who dare to resist tyranny through peaceful means.”
The Committee’s decision is expected to amplify international attention on Venezuela’s political and humanitarian crisis, reinforcing calls for democratic reforms and respect for human rights in the South American nation. Machado is expected to receive the prize at a ceremony in Oslo in December.
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