Venezuelan opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado made a triumphant appearance in Oslo on March 14, 2024, marking her first public engagement after nearly a year in hiding. This significant event occurred following a perilous escape from Venezuela, where she had been living under a travel ban and was declared a fugitive by the government of President Nicolás Maduro.
Machado arrived at Oslo’s Grand Hotel, the traditional residence for Nobel laureates, to a jubilant crowd of supporters who gathered late at night to welcome her. Dressed in a black puffer jacket and jeans, she emerged onto the balcony, where cheers and applause echoed from those eager to see the “fugitive” opposition figure. Although she missed the formal Nobel Prize ceremony earlier that day, her presence was a powerful statement against the authoritarian regime that has sought to silence her.
Her escape from Venezuela was described as “daring,” involving a journey by boat to Curacao before traveling to Norway on a private plane. This risky move followed accusations from Maduro’s administration that she had stolen the July 2024 presidential election, an event that has been widely criticized for its lack of fairness and transparency.
During her appearance in Oslo, Machado joined her supporters in singing the Venezuelan national anthem, “Gloria al Bravo Pueblo”. She expressed gratitude to those who risked their lives for her journey, stating, “Freedom is a choice that must be renewed each day.” Her remarks emphasized the broader significance of her recognition, stating that the cause of Venezuela transcends borders.
In a recorded message shared on the Nobel website, she acknowledged the sacrifices made by many for her to be present in Oslo. “A people who choose freedom contribute not only to themselves, but to humanity,” she stated, highlighting the importance of perseverance in the face of oppression.
Machado has been largely absent from public life since January 9, 2024, following a rally protesting Maduro’s inauguration for a third term. Despite winning an opposition primary election, she was barred from running against Maduro, who maintains he is the legitimate leader of Venezuela despite widespread claims of electoral fraud and repression. The lead-up to the election was marked by significant human rights violations, including arrests and disqualifications of opposition candidates.
In addressing the audience at the Nobel ceremony, Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel committee, noted Machado’s extraordinary courage in navigating the dangers to attend. He described Venezuela as “a brutal authoritarian state” and praised her as “one of the most extraordinary examples of civilian courage in recent Latin American history.”
The stories of past laureates who have been unable to attend their award ceremonies due to political persecution underscore the gravity of Machado’s situation. Notable figures including Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi and Belarusian human rights advocate Ales Bialiatski have faced similar struggles in recent years.
As Machado addressed the crowd, she reiterated her commitment to returning to Venezuela and continuing the fight for democracy. Her family and close aides joined her, and the atmosphere was charged with enthusiasm as supporters chanted, “president! president!” Videos captured her climbing over barricades to embrace her admirers, further reflecting her deep connection with the Venezuelan people.
Machado’s remarkable journey to Oslo not only symbolizes her personal resilience but also serves as a beacon of hope for many who continue to struggle against oppression in Venezuela.
