Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday for her advocacy of democratic principles in her nation and her efforts towards ushering in a democratic transition, as stated by the Norwegian Nobel Committee. The Committee emphasized the importance of acknowledging brave champions of freedom who stand up against authoritarian rule.
In a departure from the usual focus, the Committee decided to spotlight Venezuela in a year marked by US President Donald Trump’s repeated claims of deserving the Nobel Peace Prize. Analysts had predicted that Trump would not be a recipient given his actions that are viewed as undermining the global order valued by the Nobel Committee.
The Nobel Peace Prize, valued at 11 million Swedish crowns or approximately $1.2 million, will be conferred in Oslo on 10 December, coinciding with the anniversary of the death of Swedish industrialist Alfred Nobel, the founder of the prestigious awards in his will.