Oslo [Norway]; The 2025 Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader and democracy activist Maria Corina Machado for her tireless efforts in promoting democratic rights and advancing a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy in Venezuela.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee described Machado as a “brave and committed champion of peace” and highlighted her role as a “woman who keeps the flame of democracy burning amid a growing darkness.”

Promoting democracy amid global challenges

In its statement, the committee emphasised that “democracy is a precondition for lasting peace.” It noted that the world is increasingly facing challenges from authoritarian regimes, where rule of law is manipulated, free media is silenced, critics are imprisoned, and societies are pushed toward militarisation.

“Machado has spent years working for the freedom of the Venezuelan people,” the Nobel Committee said. “The Venezuelan regime’s rigid hold on power and repression of the population are not unique globally, but Machado’s work has shown that democracy and peace are closely intertwined.”

Contributions and achievements

The committee outlined Machado’s major contributions, noting that she:

  • United Venezuela’s opposition and worked towards a peaceful transition to democracy
  • Resisted the militarisation of society
  • Advocated consistently for the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights
  • Demonstrated that the tools of democracy are also the tools of peace

“Peace laureate Maria Corina Machado embodies the hope of a different future, one where citizens’ voices are heard, their rights protected, and they are free to live in peace,” the committee added.

Machado meets all three criteria outlined in Alfred Nobel’s will for awarding the Peace Prize: efforts to promote fraternity among nations, reduction of standing armies, and holding and promoting peace congresses.

Context and historical significance

The 2025 award highlights the global importance of democracy as a foundation for peace, especially in a time when authoritarianism is rising worldwide. The committee compared Machado’s achievement to past laureates, including Wangari Maathai, the first female professor in Kenya and the first African woman awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her environmental activism and founding of the Green Belt Movement.

The Nobel Prizes in chemistry, physics, medicine, and literature have already been announced this week, with the prize for economics scheduled to be revealed on Monday.

Conclusion

Maria Corina Machado’s recognition underscores the enduring link between democratic governance and peace. In a world increasingly challenged by authoritarianism, her courage and commitment serve as a reminder that the pursuit of democratic freedoms is integral to creating lasting peace.