Although Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado remains in hiding, her recent Nobel Peace Prize recognition has stirred both hope and concern among her supporters. On 10 December 2024, Machado’s daughter, Ana Corina, accepted the prize on her mother’s behalf during a ceremony held at Oslo’s City Hall.
Machado in Hiding
Machado, who has been living underground since August 2023 due to escalating tensions with President Nicolas Maduro, was unable to attend the ceremony due to fears of arrest. Venezuelan authorities have labelled her a “fugitive” if she were to leave the country. Her brave words, however, live on through her daughter’s acceptance speech.
A Daughter’s Speech
In a moving tribute, Ana Corina read her mother’s acceptance speech, highlighting the ongoing struggle for democracy in Venezuela. She stated, “What we Venezuelans can offer the world is the lesson forged through this long and difficult journey: that to have democracy, we must be willing to fight for freedom.” The ceremony was attended by Machado’s family and notable Latin American figures, including Argentine President Javier Milei.
Controversy and Challenges
While Machado’s efforts to challenge Maduro’s rule have earned her international acclaim, her association with figures such as US President Donald Trump has invited criticism. Despite this, her steadfastness remains a source of inspiration for many Venezuelans.
Future Uncertain
As discussions of her possible return to Venezuela linger, observers note that Machado risks arrest if she comes back. Professor Benedicte Bull remarked that arresting her would send a strong symbolic message from the government. Still, the situation remains precarious yet dynamic for opposition leadership.
The Nobel Prize brings with it a responsibility not just to celebrate individual achievement but also to continue advocating for those who fight against oppression. Machado’s journey, now steeped in global recognition, will undoubtedly have lasting implications for Venezuela’s democracy.