(Stockholm, 10 October 2025) SIPRI congratulates María Corina Machado on the award of the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, ‘for her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy’.
‘In awarding the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to María Corina Machado, the Norwegian Nobel Committee highlights her courage and commitment in defending democracy in Venezuela and unifying opposition to the ruling regime,’ said SIPRI Director Karim Haggag.
‘In doing so, the Committee emphasizes the powerful role played by brave individuals in promoting the cause of peace,’ said Haggag. ‘However, the Nobel Committee also chose to underscore that democratic principles—accountability, rule of law, non-violent opposition, freedom of speech and the peaceful transfer of power—are an essential foundation for lasting peace.’
‘The Committee’s decision also draws attention to the fact that we are in a time of a global backsliding on democratic values and norms,’ said Haggag. ‘Democratic principles are critical not only for individual states but also for global peace and security: international law, accountability for justice, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts and international disputes.’
‘We hope that awarding the prize to María Corina Machado will help to further the cause of democracy in Venezuela, and the cause of peace globally.’