Nobel Institute Clarifies Peace Prize Rules Amid Offer to Trump

The rules surrounding the Nobel Peace Prize have been clarified by the Norwegian Nobel Institute after Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado mentioned the possibility of giving her recent award to President Donald Trump. According to the Institute, once a Nobel Prize is awarded, it cannot be revoked, shared, or transferred to others—the decision is final.

María Corina Machado expressed her desire to give or share the prize with Trump, citing his role in overseeing the successful U.S. operation to capture authoritarian Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro, who is now facing drug trafficking charges in New York. She emphasized that the prize, awarded to her in October 2025 for promoting democratic rights and advocating for a transition to democracy, belongs to the Venezuelan people.

Machado is a prominent opposition leader and democracy activist in Venezuela, known for challenging the socialist-led government for more than two decades. She co-founded the NGO Súmate in 2004, which aimed to recall then President Hugo Chávez through a referendum. Despite facing charges of conspiracy, Machado continued to challenge the ruling party and engage in political activities.

Machado’s political career took off in 2010 when she was elected to the National Assembly with record-breaking votes. Throughout the years, she has confronted Chávez and his allies, garnering both support and opposition for her outspoken stance on democratic rights and government policies.

Despite being banned from running for public office in the 2024 election, Machado played a significant role in supporting opposition candidates. Her efforts to promote democracy in Venezuela have been recognized by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, which awarded her the prestigious Peace Prize last year.

As Machado continues her advocacy for democratic rights and a peaceful transition in Venezuela, her commitment to the cause remains unwavering. The Norwegian Nobel Committee’s decision to honor her work serves as a testament to the ongoing struggle for democracy in the country.

Overall, Machado’s dedication to promoting democratic values and her unwavering support for the Venezuelan people highlight the importance of upholding fundamental rights and fostering peaceful transitions to democracy in challenging political environments.