Oslo, Oct 10, 2025: Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 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,” the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced on Friday.
Announcing the award, Committee Chair Jørgen Watne Frydnes said, “In the past year, Ms. Machado has been forced to live in hiding. Despite serious threats against her life, she has remained in the country—a choice that has inspired millions. She has united Venezuela’s opposition and stood firm against the militarisation of society, steadfastly supporting a peaceful transition to democracy.”
A Symbol of Courage and Hope
Machado, a long-time advocate for human rights and democracy, has faced repeated threats and political persecution under Venezuela’s authoritarian regime. Her decision to remain in the country despite danger has turned her into a symbol of resistance for many Venezuelans and democracy activists worldwide.
Last year’s Peace Prize went to Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese organisation of atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, also known as Hibakusha.
Nobel Week 2025: Recognising Global Excellence
The Nobel Prize announcement week began on October 6 with the Physiology or Medicine Prize, followed by Physics (Oct 7), Chemistry (Oct 8), and Literature (Oct 9). The final award, the Economic Sciences Prize, will be declared on October 13.
Each Nobel Prize carries a cash award of 11 million Swedish kronor (approximately ₹1.03 crore) and will be presented on December 10 in Stockholm and Oslo.
The Selection Process
The Norwegian Nobel Institute received 338 nominations for the 2025 Peace Prize — 244 individuals and 94 organisations. The committee conducts an extensive review process throughout the year, consulting both Norwegian and international experts before reaching a consensus or, if needed, deciding by majority vote.
Committee Chair Frydnes noted, “All political leaders want to win the Nobel Peace Prize, but our work remains guided solely by the ideals set forth in Alfred Nobel’s will — promoting peace, disarmament, and international cooperation.”
Upholding Alfred Nobel’s Vision
The Nobel Peace Prize, established in 1895 through Alfred Nobel’s will, continues to honour individuals and organisations that make significant contributions toward peace and global harmony.
Nobel observers noted that the award to Machado reinforces the committee’s emphasis on non-violent resistance, democratic reform, and human rights — values deeply aligned with the spirit of Nobel’s original vision.
