Daughter of Nobel Laureate María Corina Machado Accepts Prize on Her Behalf in Oslo

The daughter of Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado stepped onto the stage in Oslo on Wednesday to accept her mother’s Nobel Peace Prize, delivering an emotional message about hope, resilience and the ongoing struggle for a free Venezuela. Ana Corina Sosa told the audience that her mother remains deeply committed to seeing her country return to democracy and would never abandon that mission.

Machado, who was awarded this year’s Nobel Peace Prize, was unable to attend the ceremony despite assurances from the Nobel Institute that she is safe and expected to travel to Oslo soon. The institute cited unspecified circumstances that prevented her from being present at the scheduled noon ceremony, a reminder of the political pressures Machado continues to face back home.

In her mother’s absence, Sosa accepted the award on her behalf and read a lecture written by Machado, sharing words that resonated with both Venezuelans and supporters of democracy around the world. The speech highlighted the sacrifices made by countless citizens who have endured years of political repression, economic hardship and social instability, yet continue to push for peaceful change.

Sosa said her mother’s determination comes from a belief that Venezuela deserves a future shaped by justice, democratic institutions and respect for human dignity. She added that Machado sees the Nobel Peace Prize not as a personal recognition, but as a tribute to all Venezuelans who have refused to give up on their country. The audience at Oslo City Hall responded with warm applause, acknowledging the symbolic weight of the moment.

The Nobel Committee awarded Machado the prize for what it described as her tireless efforts to pursue a peaceful transition away from authoritarian rule. Over the years, she has become one of the most prominent voices of Venezuela’s pro democracy movement, despite facing threats, political bans and intense pressure from the government. Her supporters say her work has brought international attention to the ongoing crisis in the country and inspired a new generation of activists.

Machado’s absence from the ceremony underscored the challenges that remain. While the Nobel Peace Prize represents a global acknowledgment of her efforts, it also highlights the difficult road ahead for Venezuela, where political divisions and institutional instability continue to hinder meaningful progress. Nevertheless, her daughter emphasized that the family remains hopeful and that Machado will continue her work with renewed strength.

The ceremony, attended by diplomats, activists and officials from around the world, served as a reminder that the international community is closely watching Venezuela’s struggle for democracy. As Sosa concluded her mother’s words, she expressed confidence that Venezuela’s future will ultimately be shaped by its people’s courage and persistence.