The United Nations congratulates Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Machado: “An honor that reflects the aspirations of the people of Venezuela”

UNHCR spokesman Thameen Al-Khaitan said:This honor reflects the clear aspirations of the people of Venezuela for free and fair elections, for civil and political rights, and for the rule of law. The High Commissioner has always supported these values.”

According to reports, Ms. Machado, 58, was barred from running in last year’s presidential elections and was briefly detained after participating in an opposition rally in January. She was quickly released after international pressure.

Ms. Machado thanked the Nobel Committee for this honor, saying: “An achievement for an entire community… I am just one person.”

It is noteworthy that the United Nations Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has consistently expressed concern over reports of violations being committed in Venezuela – the Latin American country.

In December 2024, Turk highlighted “Disproportionate use of force and violence” During post-election protests earlier in the year, “including armed individuals supporting the government”, killing at least 28 people.

In July, the Venezuelan National Assembly declared Mr. Türk and the staff of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights persona non grata, effectively preventing the United Nations from working on human rights there.

At the press conference of United Nations agencies in Geneva today, Thameen Al-Khitan confirmed that the Commission for Human Rights seeks to communicate with the government of Venezuela and all other concerned parties.

And he said: “We remain firmly committed to continuing to work to defend and protect the human rights of all Venezuelans, whether in Venezuela or abroad.” He stressed the need for further communication with the authorities.

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