STRASBOURG, France — The European Union’s legislative body honored Venezuelan opposition leaders Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo González Urrutia on Tuesday, recognizing their courageous efforts in the fight for democracy and human rights with the prestigious Sakharov Prize.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola commended both leaders for their dedication to restoring freedom in Venezuela, stating that they have risked everything to uphold the fundamental values cherished by the Venezuelan people and the EU.
Machado was originally poised to challenge Nicolás Maduro in the upcoming electoral contest but was disqualified by the government. In her stead, González—who had never before participated in elections—took on the candidacy.
The period leading up to the elections was marked by severe repression, including the disqualification of candidates, arrests, and various violations of human rights. Amidst these challenges, Machado went underground to protect her life, while González faced an arrest warrant issued by a Venezuelan court, prompting him to seek asylum in Spain.
Addressing EU lawmakers, González articulated the dire situation in Venezuela, highlighting the regime’s significant erosion of democratic institutions and human rights. He emphasized the ongoing struggle against an oppressive government.
The legitimacy of Maduro’s victory has been challenged by independent observers, including the United Nations. Just last month, the European Parliament passed a resolution recognizing González as Venezuela’s rightful president.
The Sakharov Prize, named in honor of the Soviet dissident and Nobel laureate Andrei Sakharov, was established in 1988 to acknowledge the efforts of individuals or groups in the defense of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The award recipient is selected by prominent EU lawmakers from nominees put forth by various political factions within the European Parliament. The assembly considers it “the highest tribute paid by the European Union to human rights work.”
Previous recipients of the Sakharov Prize include renowned figures such as Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai, Denis Mukwege, and Nadia Murad—all of whom later received the Nobel Peace Prize.
González remarked on the weight of the prize, stating, “This award carries a rich historical legacy.”
Alongside the honor, the annual award includes a financial grant of 50,000 euros (approximately $54,000).