oslocenterMedia release: The Oslo Centre congratulates Nobel Peace Prize recipient Maria Corina Machado
"The work of Maria Corina Machado is more important than ever."
Friday 10 October, 2025 (Oslo, Norway) – The Oslo Centre congratulates Maria Corina Machado on her exemplary efforts to promote democracy in Venezuela. The award is a reminder of the importance of supporting those who defend democratic values at a time when freedom and democracy are under pressure.
Maria Corina Machado is the leader of the opposition party Vente Venezuela. Through her work to promote democratic rights for the people of Venezuela, she has been a courageous advocate for a free and democratic Venezuela, and for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.
In a time when democratic rights are under pressure, and when more and more autocratic forces are gaining ground, we are dependent on courageous advocates like Maria Corina Machado. As an activist and politician, she has been a strong voice for change and democratic development in Venezuela since the early 2000s. Her efforts deserve our respect and a warm congratulations on this recognition,” says Finn Jarle Rode, Chair of The Oslo Center.
In its justification, the Nobel Committee emphasized that fundamental democratic rights are a prerequisite for peace. This view is fully shared by The Oslo Centre. Through its work on democracy development in Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe, The Oslo Centre has first-hand experience on how crucial democratic rights are for stability and peace.
“Our experience in working on democracy development within vulnerable democracies and authoritarian regimes is that advocates of democracy are dependent on support from other democratic countries. This award is an important expression of support for all of us who work to strengthen fundamental democratic rights,” says Rode.
“With this year’s award, the Nobel Committee has made a clear appeal to the world that democracy is the basis for stability and peace. Through participation, influence and mutual respect, democratic societies contribute to peace, security and development across national borders. We must not take that for granted,” he concludes.
About The Oslo Center
Founded in 2006, The Oslo Center is a Norway-based non-governmental organization that works to strengthen democratic institutions and processes worldwide. Through partnerships, technical assistance, and advocacy, the Center promotes inclusive governance, political participation, and democratic resilience in transitional and fragile contexts.