Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has been honoured with the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her relentless efforts to restore democracy and resist authoritarian rule in her country. The Norwegian Nobel Committee praised her as a “key unifying figure” who helped bridge Venezuela’s fragmented opposition and inspired millions through her courage.

Machado, a former presidential candidate, has long been a central voice in the fight against President Nicolás Maduro’s regime. Despite facing persecution, arrests, and constant threats to her life, she has remained in Venezuela, continuing to advocate for free and fair elections.

Announcing the award, Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Nobel Committee, said, “Maria Corina Machado has played a crucial role in uniting Venezuela’s opposition around the shared demand for representative government. Even under severe repression, she has stood her ground, becoming a symbol of hope and resilience.”

He added that Machado’s decision to stay in the country despite the risks “has inspired millions” and underscored the global importance of recognising defenders of democracy who stand firm in the face of authoritarian power.

In the past year, Machado has lived in hiding after being disqualified from contesting Venezuela’s presidential elections, which were widely condemned as fraudulent. Her replacement, Edmundo González, later fled to Spain and received asylum after facing an arrest warrant. The disputed election results triggered nationwide protests and a violent crackdown that left over 20 people dead.

Machado’s recognition comes amid speculation that US President Donald Trump could win the prize following his role in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. However, the Nobel Committee dismissed the political noise, choosing instead to highlight Machado’s years of peaceful resistance.

For decades, Machado has stood at the forefront of Venezuela’s pro-democracy movement, refusing to be silenced by intimidation or violence. Her leadership has turned her into one of Latin America’s most respected voices for freedom.

The Nobel Peace Prize—traditionally awarded in Oslo, Norway—was last year given to Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese organisation representing atomic bomb survivors advocating for nuclear disarmament.