The Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado reacted with disbelief and emotion after being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 this Friday, becoming the first person from Venezuela to receive this international distinction.
In a video published by Edmundo González, a presidential candidate supported by Machado in the 2024 elections, the moment is captured when both of them are conversing over the phone shortly after the news is announced.
"Oh no, well... I don’t know if I’m... I’m in shock," Machado says at the beginning of the call. "What is this thing? I mean, I can’t believe this, my God," she adds, visibly moved. González, amidst laughter and excitement, responds: "We’re all in shock from joy here too, you know? This is amazing."
In the message accompanying the video, González publicly congratulated the opposition figure: “Our beloved María Corina Machado, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2025! A well-deserved recognition for the long struggle of a woman and an entire people for our freedom and democracy. The first Nobel laureate from Venezuela! Congratulations @mariacorinaya, Venezuela will be free!”.
Machado received the official notification from the Nobel Committee just minutes before the public announcement, in a call made by Kristian Berg Harpviken, director of the Norwegian Nobel Institute. The moment was captured in a video where she is clearly seen being emotional: “Oh my God… I am at a loss for words. I hope you understand me (...) It is an honor and I know this is very good news for the people of Venezuela. Thank you very much,” she expressed.
For its part, the Norwegian Nobel Committee, chaired by Jørgen Watne Frydnes, highlighted Machado's role as "a brave and committed advocate for peace" and her effort to achieve “a fair and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”
Machado has been crucial in unifying a historically divided opposition and in articulating a civic strategy to demand free elections in Venezuela. In 2023, the regime of Nicolás Maduro blocked her presidential candidacy despite her overwhelming victory in the opposition primaries. Subsequently, it also disregarded the electoral results that favored González, leading to international accusations of fraud.
Currently, María Corina Machado is in hiding due to the increase in political persecution by the Chavista regime.
Although there has not yet been an official reaction from Maduro's government, statements are expected in the coming hours.
In the United States, there is anticipation regarding how President Donald Trump will react, as he has aspired for years to win the Nobel Prize for his international policies, but did not succeed in this edition.
Frequently asked questions about the Nobel Peace Prize for María Corina Machado
Why was María Corina Machado awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2025?
María Corina Machado received the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 for her tireless work in promoting democratic rights in Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a fair and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy. Her role as a courageous advocate for peace and her ability to unite a historically divided opposition were key factors in her international recognition.
What has been the impact of Nicolás Maduro's dictatorship in Venezuela?
The dictatorship of Nicolás Maduro has generated an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Venezuela, forcing a third of the population to flee the country. The regime has been accused of crimes against humanity and of operating as a criminal structure involved in drug trafficking. Furthermore, it has destabilized the region and poses a threat to the security of the United States, according to various international reports.
How has the international community reacted to the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to María Corina Machado?
The recognition of María Corina Machado has been celebrated by international leaders and human rights organizations, who view her award as a symbol of hope for Venezuela. The award highlights the importance of her fight for democracy and freedom in a region that faces significant challenges due to authoritarian regimes. However, there has been no immediate official reaction from Nicolás Maduro's government regarding the award.
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