The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided to award this year's Nobel Peace Prize to Maria Corina Machado of Venezuela. She was selected for her tireless commitment to defending the democratic rights of the Venezuelan people, as well as for her courageous efforts towards a peaceful and just transition from dictatorship to democracy.
For the past year, Machado has been forced to live in hiding, facing serious threats to her life. However, she chose to remain in her country, a decision that has inspired millions of citizens.
"When power falls into the hands of authoritarians, it is essential to recognize those courageous defenders of freedom who stand up and resist. Democracy is kept alive by those who do not remain silent, who dare to step forward despite the risk, and who remind us that freedom is not a given, it must be defended constantly, with words, courage and determination," the Norwegian Nobel Committee emphasized in its decision.
As a leader of Venezuela's democracy movement, Maria Corina Machado has become one of the most prominent figures of political courage in Latin America in recent years. She has managed to unite a once-fragile opposition, creating a common front demanding free elections and representative government.
"This is the very essence of democracy, our shared will to defend the principles of popular sovereignty, even when we have different opinions. At a time when democracy is under pressure, it is more important than ever to maintain this common ground."
Why not Donald Trump?
Asked whether Donald Trump had been considered for the prize, due to public campaigns proposing him, the Norwegian Committee's spokesperson said:
"In the long history of the Nobel Peace Prize, we have seen many such campaigns. We receive thousands of letters of nomination every year. But when the committee meets in the room where the portraits of the winners over the years are, it is filled with a sense of courage and integrity. Our decisions are based solely on the work and vision of Alfred Nobel, nothing less."
