Maria Corina Machado (center) participates in a demonstration in Caracas in 2019. UN: Nobel Peace Prize awarded to Maria Corina Machado reflects the hopes of Venezuelans Human Rights
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) on Friday welcomed the Nobel Committee’s decision to award the Nobel Peace Prize to social activist and politician Maria Corina Machado in recognition of her efforts to champion democratic aspirations of the people of Venezuela.
“We congratulate Maria Corina Machado on being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, – said OHCHR spokesperson Tamin al-Hitan. – This recognition reflects a clear Venezuelans’ desire for free and fair elections, for civil and political rights and for the rule of law.”
The 58-year-old activist, who was banned by authorities from participating in last year’s presidential elections, continues to hide in Venezuela. She was briefly detained in January after attending an opposition rally and was soon released, reportedly under international pressure. The Nobel Committee for the award, noting that it was “an achievement for the whole of society.”
“I am just one person. “I certainly don’t deserve this,” – she said.
Repressions against opposition
Numerous reports prepared under the mandate of the UN Human Rights Council indicate serious restrictions on civil liberties in Venezuela.
Earlier this year, independent experts called on authorities to stop the practice of keeping political opponents in complete isolation. They stressed that “targeted detentions” are illegal and can be classified as enforced disappearances. This is one of the most serious violations of human rights, which, if confirmed, can be classified as an international crime. country.
In December 2024, Türk condemned the “disproportionate use of force and violence” during post-election protests, including by armed government supporters. At least 28 people were killed then.
In July, the National Assembly of Venezuela declared Turk and OHCHR staff persona non grata, effectively blocking the work of the UN Office in country.
Human rights – universal
Speaking to reporters in Geneva, OHCHR spokesman al-Khitan stressed that the Office is committed to dialogue with the Government of Venezuela and all stakeholders.
“We remain firmly committed to protecting the rights of all Venezuelans – both within the country and abroad,” – he said.
“The main thing now – is to strengthen interaction with the authorities, – added al-Khitan. – Unfortunately, the National Assembly of Venezuela voted to declare the High Commissioner persona non grata.”