Venezuelan opposition leader and pro-democracy activist Maria Corina Machado has been awarded the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced on Friday.
Machado was recognised for her “tireless efforts in advancing democratic rights for Venezuelans and her unwavering struggle for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy,” said Jorgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Nobel Committee, in Oslo.
The committee praised her courage, noting that despite being forced into hiding, she chose to remain in Venezuela, a decision that has “inspired millions.” It added, “Democracy survives because of those who refuse to stay silent, even when the risks are grave.”
There had been speculation that former U.S. President Donald Trump might receive the prize, following his role in brokering a Gaza ceasefire deal earlier this week. Trump had previously claimed credit for “stopping seven w@rs,” though his assertions have been widely disputed.
Speaking at the UN last month, Trump remarked, “Everyone says I should get the Nobel Peace Prize,” while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed in July that he had nominated the former president.
However, Nina Graeger, director of the Peace Research Institute Oslo, told Sky News that the Gaza agreement likely came too late for consideration this year. She noted that if the deal results in lasting peace, it could strengthen Trump’s chances for next year’s award.
The Nobel Committee described Machado, 58, as “one of the most extraordinary examples of civilian courage in Latin America in recent times.” Although barred from contesting Venezuela’s last presidential election, she threw her support behind opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez.
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