MarΓa Corina Machado, a well-known opposition activist from Venezuela, has once again found herself in the global spotlight. In the Norwegian capital of Oslo, she appeared before her supporters for the first time in many months, stepping onto the balcony of the famous Grand Hotel. Despite her fatigue, she wore a constant smile and placed her hand over her heart while singing her countryβs national anthem. This marked her first public appearance since January of this year.
Machado’s visit to Oslo is tied to her being awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. The prestigious honor was given to her for her tireless fight for political change in Venezuela. According to representatives of the Nobel Committee, it was originally planned that Machado would not appear in public and would only meet with close family members. In the end, the medal and diploma were accepted on her behalf by her daughter Ana Corina Sosa, who also delivered a speech in her mother’s name.
A long journey to Oslo
Machado’s journey to Norway was not an easy one. She had to leave Venezuela by sea, first traveling to CuraΓ§ao, and then flying almost 9,000 kilometers to Oslo on a private Embraer Legacy 600 jet with a stopover in the US. Despite numerous challenges, she finally made it to the Norwegian capital, where dozens of Venezuelans had gathered at the hotel entrance to greet her. People chanted ‘Libertad, libertad,’ expressing their support and hopes for change.
Despite security recommendations, Machado could not stand aside and approached her supporters to embrace them. This gesture triggered a wave of emotion among those gathered, and many could not hold back tears. For many Venezuelans far from home, meeting the opposition leader became a symbol of hope for a better future.
Award ceremony
The official Nobel Peace Prize award ceremony took place in Oslo in a solemn atmosphere. The King and Queen of Norway, as well as several presidents from Latin American countries, attended the event. Since Machado did not arrive in time for the start of the ceremony, her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, represented her mother and read a speech emphasizing the need for peaceful resistance and belief in Venezuela’s democratic future.
In her address, Sosa stressed that the fight for freedom and human rights continues despite all obstacles. She also expressed gratitude to the international community for its support and solidarity with the Venezuelan people.
Reaction to the award
Machado’s receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize sparked widespread reaction. Opposition representatives and many Latin American leaders welcomed the decision, seeing it as recognition of efforts to democratize the country. Meanwhile, Venezuelan authorities and their allies sharply condemned the Nobel Committee’s choice, calling the award ‘stained with blood.’
The President of the Norwegian Nobel Committee publicly called on Venezuelan President NicolΓ‘s Maduro to recognize the results of the 2024 elections and step down to ensure a peaceful transfer of power. The UN Secretary-General condemned any threats against Machado and stressed the importance of protecting the rights of the opposition.
International support
U.S. President Donald Trump also commented on the situation, expressing hope that Machado would not be arrested and congratulating her on receiving the award. Both inside Venezuela and abroad, many are closely following developments, awaiting further moves from both the opposition and the authorities.
For Machado herself, coming to Oslo was not only an opportunity to gain international recognition but also a chance to see her family for the first time in two years. She has already stated she will be able to embrace her loved ones as soon as she reaches them. Her speech at the ceremony was a call for peaceful resistance and belief in change.
If you weren’t aware, MarΓa Corina Machado is one of Venezuela’s most prominent opposition politicians and the founder of the movement Vente Venezuela. She is a strong advocate for democratic reforms and a change of government in the country. In 2025, Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize for her role in advancing peaceful change. Her work is supported by many international organizations and leaders. In recent years, she has been subjected to persecution and restrictions by the Venezuelan authorities.
