The Norwegian Nobel Committee revealed on Friday that Maria Corina Machado has been honored with the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, concluding weeks of speculation and worldwide attention surrounding one of the globe's most esteemed and unpredictable awards.
Jorgen Watne Frydnes, the chair of the Norwegian Nobel committee, praised the former opposition presidential candidate in Venezuela as a 'crucial, unifying figure in a political opposition that was previously highly fragmented – an opposition that united in the call for free elections and a representative government.'
The Norwegian Nobel Committee has awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to Maria Corina Machado for her unwavering dedication to promoting democratic rights for Venezuelans and her efforts to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy, as stated by the committee.
The decision follows a flurry of attention surrounding US President Donald Trump, who had been vigorously campaigning for the accolade.
Trump’s Bid and Public Campaign for the Prize
Donald Trump openly expressed his belief that he merited the Peace Prize, pointing to his mediation efforts and ceasefire proposals in conflicts such as those between Israel and Gaza, as well as India and Pakistan. Regrettably,Trump supporters claim that although Trump was the most crucial peacemakers, he was not included on the list.
Reactions and Outcomes
United States & Trump Base: Supporters of Trump responded intensely, criticizing the Nobel process, questioning its fairness, and speculating about political motives. This omission is expected to become a topic of discussion in his political storyline.
Venezuela & Latin America
Machado's victory was hailed by supporters as a validation and a boost for the opposition movement in Venezuela. At the same time, the Maduro government is expected to view the accolade as a form of international pressure.