The Norwegian Nobel Committee has awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to María Corina Machado for her unwavering commitment to restoring democracy in Venezuela. The announcement on Friday highlighted her pivotal role as a unifying force within a once-fragmented political opposition, championing the cause of free and fair elections.
Jorgen Watne Frydnes, the committee’s chair, praised Machado as a “key, unifying figure” whose efforts brought together diverse opposition groups under the common goal of achieving representative government. Her selection underscores the committee’s long-standing tradition of recognizing individuals who dedicate their lives to fighting for fundamental human rights and peaceful political transitions.
The committee’s official statement lauded 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.” This recognition places her among a distinguished group of laureates who have challenged authoritarian regimes through non-violent means.
The decision arrived amidst considerable speculation that former U.S. President Donald Trump might receive the honor for his diplomatic interventions, particularly his recent plan for a ceasefire in Gaza. Despite his active lobbying, Nobel experts had consistently viewed his candidacy as a long shot, pointing to the committee’s preference for sustained, grassroots peace-building efforts over high-profile political deals.
Following the announcement, the White House issued a statement affirming that Trump would remain dedicated to his peacemaking agenda. “President Trump will continue making peace deals, ending wars, and saving lives,” his communications director wrote, emphasizing his “heart of a humanitarian.”