Venezuelan opposition leader and pro-democracy activist Maria Corina Machado has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced on Friday.&nbsp;
The decision, viewed as a strong endorsement of democratic resistance, is expected to spark political debate in Washington.
Machado, a prominent critic of Venezuela&rsquo;s authoritarian government, has long been recognized globally for her advocacy of democracy and human rights under repressive conditions. 
Her selection highlights the committee&rsquo;s focus on &ldquo;courage and integrity,&rdquo; said Chair J&oslash;rgen Watne Frydnes, emphasizing that the decision was made strictly in accordance with Alfred Nobel&rsquo;s will.
&ldquo;This committee sits in a room surrounded by portraits of all past laureates , a room filled with courage and integrity. Our choices are guided solely by Nobel&rsquo;s original vision,&rdquo; Frydnes said during the announcement in Oslo.
The award also rekindled discussions surrounding former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly asserted that he should have received the Peace Prize for mediating &ldquo;seven wars in seven months.&rdquo; 
Despite several nominations from countries including Russia, Rwanda, and Israel, Trump was once again passed over.
Reaffirming its impartiality, the Norwegian Nobel Committee stressed that political lobbying or campaigns have no bearing on its selections, underscoring that the Peace Prize continues to honor genuine and lasting contributions to global peace.

Maria Corina Machado celebrates Nobel Peace Prize

Nobel Peace Prize 2025 goes to Venezuelan activist Maria Corina Machado

Maria Corina Machado Wins 2025 Peace Prize

Nobel Peace Prize 2025 goes to Venezuelan activist Maria Corina Machado

October 10, 2025 | 16:55 IST