On October 10, 2025, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced that the Nobel Peace Prize for 2025 has been awarded to Maria Corina Machado, a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader and democracy activist. The prestigious award recognizes her relentless efforts in promoting democratic rights and advocating for a peaceful transition from authoritarian rule to democracy in Venezuela. Jorgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, praised Machado as “a brave and committed champion of peace” during the announcement in Oslo, Norway. Her tireless work to advance democracy in the face of growing authoritarianism in her country has positioned her as a global symbol of hope for those fighting for freedom and justice.
The Nobel Committee emphasized that Machado’s contributions extend beyond her leadership in Venezuela’s opposition. “Maria Corina Machado is receiving the Nobel Peace Prize first and foremost for her efforts to advance democracy in Venezuela,” the committee stated. However, they also highlighted the broader global context, noting that democracy—defined as the right to freely express opinions, cast votes, and be represented in elected government—is increasingly under threat worldwide. The committee underscored that democracy is the foundation of peace both within and between nations, making Machado’s work particularly significant in a time when authoritarian regimes are challenging democratic norms and resorting to violence.
Machado’s journey to becoming a leading figure in Venezuela’s fight for democracy is marked by her diverse background and unwavering commitment. Trained as an industrial engineer with a background in finance, Machado initially pursued a career in business. However, her passion for social change led her to establish the Atenea Foundation in 1992, an organization dedicated to supporting street children in Caracas. A decade later, in 2002, she co-founded Súmate, a non-governmental organization focused on promoting free and fair elections through voter education and election monitoring. Her political career gained momentum in 2010 when she was elected to Venezuela’s National Assembly, securing a record number of votes. However, the authoritarian regime expelled her from office in 2014, a move that only strengthened her resolve.
As the leader of the Vente Venezuela opposition party and a co-founder of the Soy Venezuela alliance in 2017, Machado has worked to unite pro-democracy forces across political divides. Her leadership has been instrumental in resisting the militarization of Venezuelan society and advocating for a peaceful transition to democratic governance. The Nobel Committee praised her for embodying the tools of democracy—freedom of expression, civic participation, and fair elections—which they described as essential instruments of peace. “She has never wavered in resisting the militarization of Venezuelan society,” the committee noted, adding that her work offers hope for a future where citizens’ fundamental rights are protected, and their voices are heard.
The announcement of Machado’s award comes at a critical time for global democracy. The committee highlighted the alarming trend of democratic backsliding worldwide, with authoritarian regimes tightening their grip on power, silencing free media, imprisoning critics, and undermining the rule of law. In 2024, a record number of elections took place globally, but the committee noted that fewer of these were free and fair, underscoring the urgency of Machado’s mission. Her efforts to unite Venezuela’s opposition and resist authoritarianism align with the criteria outlined in Alfred Nobel’s will for the Peace Prize, which emphasizes fostering fraternity between nations, reducing standing armies, and promoting peace congresses.
The Nobel Peace Prize ceremony is scheduled to take place on December 10, 2025, in Oslo, Norway, where Machado will formally receive the award. The announcement has drawn significant attention, with questions raised about other potential candidates, including U.S. President Donald Trump, who was reportedly nominated for the prize. Jorgen Watne Frydnes dismissed any speculation that external campaigns influenced the committee’s decision, stating, “We receive thousands and thousands of letters every year of people wanting to say what, for them, leads to peace. This committee sits in a room filled with the portraits of all laureates, and that room is filled with both courage and integrity. We base only our decision on the work and the will of Alfred Nobel.”
This year’s Nobel Peace Prize saw an unprecedented 338 nominees, comprising 244 individuals and 94 organizations, a notable increase from the 286 nominees in 2024. The highest number of nominees in the prize’s history was recorded in 2016, with 376 candidates. Machado’s selection from such a competitive field underscores the significance of her contributions to the global struggle for democracy and peace.
Maria Corina Machado’s recognition as the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate is a testament to her courage, resilience, and dedication to democratic ideals. Her work serves as a beacon of hope for Venezuelans and others around the world who are fighting against authoritarianism and striving for a future where peace and justice prevail. By honoring Machado, the Nobel Committee has reaffirmed the critical link between democracy and lasting peace, sending a powerful message to leaders and activists worldwide.
