The European Parliament has awarded the prestigious Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought for 2024 to the leading figure of Venezuela’s democratic forces, María Corina Machado, and the newly elected president, Edmundo González Urrutia. They represent all Venezuelans—both within the country and abroad—who are striving to restore freedom and democracy. With this award, the Parliament acknowledges their unwavering determination in the fight for liberty, democracy, and human rights, and continues to support their efforts to secure a democratic future for Venezuela.

María Corina Machado, a former member of parliament and now a key leader of the democratic opposition, is known for her outspoken criticism of the Maduro regime. She advocates for democratic reforms and insists that the exercise of state power in Venezuela must be transparent and subject to public scrutiny. Today, María Corina Machado is a central figure in Venezuela’s pro-democracy movement and, due to her outspoken stance against corruption and abuse of power, has frequently come into conflict with state authorities.

Edmundo González Urrutia, a diplomat and the newly elected president, is also deeply committed to the fight for democracy and freedom in Venezuela. Representing Venezuelan citizens both at home and abroad, González Urrutia is a respected civil society leader who seeks to unify the Venezuelan people and foster solidarity in the face of state repression. He also works to gain international support and build alliances that could help lay the groundwork for democratic transition in Venezuela. Under his leadership, particularly during times of widespread civil unrest, Venezuelans have managed to unite behind a common goal.

The decision to honour these two individuals with the 2024 Sakharov Prize is a clear expression of the European Parliament’s commitment to defending democratic values across the globe.

President Metsola paid tribute to the courage of the laureates with the following words:
"Through their efforts to achieve a just, free, and peaceful transfer of power, they have courageously upheld values that matter deeply to millions of Venezuelans as well as to the European Parliament: justice, democracy, and the rule of law. The European Parliament stands firmly with the people of Venezuela, with María Corina Machado, and with the newly elected president Edmundo González Urrutia in their struggle for a democratic future for Venezuela. This prize belongs to them all."

For the people of Venezuela, who are facing severe economic hardship, human rights violations, and political repression, this recognition is intended to serve as a beacon of hope—a signal that the international community stands in solidarity with their cause.

Photo: © Miguel Gutierrez