Daughter of Venezuelan Leader Accepts Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo

In a poignant ceremony held in Oslo, Norway, on December 10, 2025, Ana Corina Sosa accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of her mother, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado. The absence of Machado, who has been in hiding since January 9 following her brief detention during a protest in Caracas, cast a shadow over the award. Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel committee, acknowledged the dangers Machado faced, stating, “María Corina Machado has done everything in her power to be able to attend the ceremony here today — a journey in a situation of extreme danger.”

Machado’s decision to remain hidden comes as she has faced significant challenges in her fight for democracy in Venezuela. Her daughter, Sosa, represented her in a ceremony that celebrated the recognition of their struggle against the authoritarian regime led by President Nicolás Maduro. The Norwegian Nobel committee described Machado as a leader who “keeps the flame of democracy burning amid a growing darkness.”

Recognition of Sacrifices

In an audio message released on the Nobel website, Machado expressed deep gratitude to those who risked their lives for her recognition. “I know that there are hundreds of Venezuelans from different parts of the world that were able to reach your city that are right now in Oslo,” she said, highlighting the collective effort behind her award. Machado emphasized that the prize is a victory for all Venezuelans, indicating her desire to reunite with her family and supporters after years of separation.

Prominent Latin American leaders attended the ceremony, including Argentina’s President Javier Milei, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa, Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino, and Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña, showcasing solidarity with Machado’s cause. Their presence underscored the international support for democratic movements within Venezuela and the broader region.

Political Context and Challenges

Machado’s win was announced on October 10, 2025, in recognition of her efforts to achieve a democratic transition in Venezuela. She had intended to challenge Maduro in the July 28, 2024, presidential election but was barred from running. Her place on the ballot was taken by retired diplomat Edmundo González, who has since sought asylum in Spain after facing legal threats.

The political climate in Venezuela has been marked by widespread repression, including disqualifications, arrests, and human rights violations. These actions have intensified since the National Electoral Council, dominated by Maduro loyalists, declared the incumbent the election winner. The ongoing crackdown on dissent has drawn international condemnation, with U.N. human rights officials and independent watchdogs calling for accountability.

Gustavo Tovar-Arroyo, a Venezuelan human rights activist in exile, reflected on Machado’s absence, stating, “We are disappointed that she cannot be in the ceremony, but this is part of what we do when we fight against a dictatorship.” His comments encapsulate the struggles faced by many who oppose the current regime.

Historically, several Nobel Peace Prize laureates have been prevented from attending their award ceremonies due to political circumstances. Recent examples include Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi and Belarusian human rights advocate Ales Bialiatski, both of whom were imprisoned during their award years.

As the ceremony concluded, the focus remained on the ongoing fight for democracy in Venezuela. The international community continues to watch closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the challenges faced by the Venezuelan people. Machado’s recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination of those advocating for freedom and justice in oppressive circumstances.