María Corina Machado to Miss Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony in Oslo
Absence Confirmed by Norwegian Nobel Institute
María Corina Machado, the Venezuelan opposition leader, will not attend the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony in Oslo, according to Kristian Berg Harpviken, director of the Norwegian Nobel Institute. Machado, recognized for her commitment to achieving a democratic transition in Venezuela, last made a public appearance 11 months ago. Her daughter will receive the prestigious award on her behalf.
“We confirm that she will not attend the Nobel ceremony, but we are optimistic about her presence on the rest of the day’s agenda,” said Machado’s spokesperson, Claudia Macero, without disclosing her mother’s current location. Harpviken noted that just four days prior, Machado had indicated her intention to participate, although details regarding her security and arrival had to remain confidential.
Context of Machado’s Situation
Machado has been in hiding since being briefly detained during an opposition protest in Caracas on January 9, 2025. Her recognition as a Nobel laureate was announced on October 10, describing her as a crucial figure “who keeps the flame of democracy burning amid a growing darkness.” Despite winning an opposition primary election and planning to run against President Nicolás Maduro, her candidacy was blocked by the government. In her absence, retired diplomat Edmundo González represented her in the presidential election, which was marred by widespread repression, including human rights violations and arrests.
International Solidarity at the Ceremony
Prominent leaders from Latin America are attending the ceremony to express solidarity with Machado, including Argentine President Javier Milei, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa, Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino, and Paraguayan President Santiago Peña. The deteriorating situation for political dissenters in Venezuela has drawn international concern, with U.N. officials and independent rights organizations demanding accountability for the Maduro regime.
Tradition of Representation at the Nobel Ceremony
Harpviken highlighted that it is customary for close family members to represent Nobel laureates who are unable to attend the ceremony. This has occurred for other laureates, including Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi and Belarusian advocate Ales Bialiatski, who were likewise imprisstartd at the time of their awards. On this occasion, Machado’s daughter is set to deliver a statement reflecting her mother’s views.
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