Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado emerged publicly for the first time in 11 months early Thursday morning in Oslo, Norway, waving to supporters from a hotel balcony hours after her daughter accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf.
Machado had been in hiding since January 9, 2025, after a brief detention during a protest in Caracas, Venezuela. Her absence from public life had sparked concern internationally, as she had been expected to attend the Nobel ceremony alongside heads of state and her family.
Escape from Venezuela
CBS News confirmed that Machado left Venezuela via Curaçao, a Dutch-controlled island located approximately 40 miles north of Venezuela. The Wall Street Journal first reported details of her escape route.
In an audio recording shared by the Nobel Prize organization, Machado explained that she could not reach the ceremony on time but acknowledged that many people had “risked their lives” to ensure her safety in Oslo.
Her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf, stating:
“She wants to live in a free Venezuela, and she will never give up on that purpose. That is why we all know she will be back in Venezuela very soon.”
Recognition of Courage
Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, highlighted Machado’s determination to attend the event despite the extreme danger she faced. He said:
“Although she will not be able to reach this ceremony and today’s events, we are profoundly happy to confirm that she is safe, and that she will be with us here in Oslo.”
Machado, known as Venezuela’s “Iron Lady”, has become a symbol of resilience for the Venezuelan opposition. In an earlier Zoom interview with CBS News, she emphasized that the Nobel Prize sends a message to Venezuelans that they are not alone in their struggle for democracy.
Political Risks
Venezuela’s Attorney General previously warned that Machado would be considered a fugitive if she left the country to accept the Nobel Prize. Despite this, Machado chose to travel to Oslo, underlining her commitment to promoting democratic rights and advocating for a peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.
Significance of the Nobel Peace Prize
The Nobel Committee awarded Machado the Peace Prize for her tireless work in defending democracy and her efforts to achieve a just and peaceful political transition in Venezuela. Her recognition brings global attention to the ongoing challenges faced by Venezuelans under the Maduro regime and highlights the international support for democratic movements in the country.
Public Reception in Oslo
Hours after the award ceremony, Machado appeared on a balcony of the Grand Hotel in Oslo, waving to a jubilant crowd of supporters. The public appearance marked her first visible moment in over a year, reinforcing her stature as a central figure in Venezuela’s opposition movement.
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