Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado recently made her first public appearance in over ten months. She waved to supporters from a hotel balcony in Oslo, Norway, just hours after her daughter accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf.
Machado had been in hiding since January. After a brief detention during a protest in Caracas, she chose to remain out of the public eye due to safety concerns. She escaped Venezuela via Curaçao, a Dutch-controlled island, to reach Oslo.
Despite missing the ceremony, Machado expressed in an audio message that many had risked their lives for her safe arrival in Norway. Her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa, emphasized her mother’s commitment to a free Venezuela, stating, “She will never give up on that purpose.”
Jørgen Watne Frydnes, from the Norwegian Nobel committee, noted the extreme danger Machado faced during her journey. He assured attendees that she is safe and celebrated her courage and dedication to democratic rights in Venezuela.
Machado, often referred to as Venezuela’s “Iron Lady,” was recognized for her relentless efforts toward promoting democracy and advocating for her country’s citizens. According to February 2023 data from the UN, Venezuela has faced significant challenges, with over six million people fleeing the country due to the ongoing crisis.
Machado’s award symbolizes hope for many Venezuelans. In a recent conversation with CBS News, she emphasized that the world recognizes their struggle, saying, “You are not alone. This fight is epic.”
The treatment of Machado highlights ongoing tensions within Venezuela. The country’s attorney general previously labeled her a “fugitive” to discourage her from leaving. As Venezuela grapples with its political landscape, the international community watches closely, eager to see how these developments unfold.
For more on the ongoing crisis in Venezuela and the implications of Machado’s recognition, you can refer to reports from trusted sources like BBC News or Human Rights Watch.
In essence, Machado’s story is not just about an individual; it’s a testament to the collective struggle for freedom and justice in Venezuela.
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Nobel Peace Prize, Norway, María Corina Machado
