The European Parliament has awarded its prestigious Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to Venezuelan opposition leaders María Corina Machado and Edmundo González, recognizing their tireless efforts in representing the Venezuelan people in their struggle to restore freedom and democracy.
In the wake of a controversial presidential election in 2024, where Machado was initially positioned as the democratic opposition candidate against the incumbent, Nicolás Maduro, she was disqualified by the government, leading González to step in, despite having no prior political experience.
The lead-up to the election was marked by widespread repression, including disqualifications, arrests, and various human rights violations. Amid these threats, Machado took refuge, fearing for her life. Meanwhile, a Venezuelan court issued an arrest warrant for González, who subsequently sought political asylum in Spain.
Roberta Metsola, president of the European Parliament, highlighted their courage, stating, “In their quest for a fair, free, and peaceful transition of power, they have fearlessly upheld values that millions of Venezuelans and we in the European Parliament hold dear—justice, democracy, and the rule of law.” She expressed solidarity with Machado and González, reaffirming, “This parliament stands with the people of Venezuela in their struggle for a democratic future.”
González took to social media platform X to express his honor and gratitude for the award, crediting Machado as an exceptional leader whose political acumen and unwavering spirit have kept the flame of freedom alive in Venezuela. He also extended his appreciation to his fellow Venezuelans, commending their civility and courage in facing a regime that consistently violates human rights.
Despite this recognition, González cautioned that the battle for democracy in Venezuela continues, as the regime continues to obstruct political change and perpetrate human rights violations. He urged supporters of democracy globally to assist in upholding the sovereign mandate of the Venezuelan people.
The Sakharov Prize, established in 1988 in honor of Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov, acknowledges individuals or groups committed to defending human rights and basic freedoms. The selection of the award recipient involves senior EU lawmakers who evaluate nominations from various political groups within the parliament.
This year’s prize, which comes with a €50,000 (approximately $54,000) endowment, will be formally awarded in mid-December during a ceremony at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France. Other notable nominees included grassroots organizations from the Middle East, such as Women Wage Peace and Women of the Sun, as well as Azerbaijani anti-corruption activist Gubad Ibadoghlu. Past laureates of the Sakharov Prize have gone on to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, including figures like Nelson Mandela and Malala Yousafzai.