Nobel Peace Prize 2025: Awarded to María Corina Machado of Venezuela

Why it is in the news:

• The 2025 Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to María Corina Machado of Venezuela.
• She received the prize for her tireless efforts in promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela, opposing dictatorship, and advocating for just and peaceful democratic change.

Who is María Corina Machado ?

• María Corina Machado is a prominent Venezuelan political leader, democracy activist, and a vocal opposition figure.
• She has long campaigned for freedom, transparency, and human rights in her country.
• Machado has strengthened democratic values among the people through peaceful and non-violent movements against Venezuela’s authoritarian regime.

Why was she awarded this prize ?

• The Norwegian Nobel Committee stated that Machado’s work exemplifies how non-violent struggle can be effective in establishing democracy.
• She paved the way for democratic transition even amid authoritarian rule and consistently raised her voice to restore the political rights of her fellow citizens.

Who receives the Nobel Peace Prize ?

The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to:

• Promoting world peace,
• Protecting human rights, and
• Resolving international or internal conflicts.

Trump was also in the race

• This year, former U.S. President Donald Trump was also among the potential nominees. There was speculation that he could be nominated for his mediation efforts in the Ukraine war and other international conflicts.
• However, the Nobel Committee ultimately decided to award the 2025 Peace Prize to María Corina Machado.

Conclusion:

• María Corina Machado’s victory not only recognizes the democratic struggle of the Venezuelan people but also sends a message that non-violent struggle and principled leadership can bring about meaningful change.