The scheduled press conference for Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, this year’s Nobel Peace Prize recipient, was abruptly canceled on Tuesday amid growing uncertainty about her location. The Nobel Institute confirmed it remains “in the dark” regarding the whereabouts of the laureate, who has been living in hiding since Venezuela’s contentious 2024 presidential election.
Machado, recognized for her persistent efforts to advance democratic principles in Venezuela, was expected to personally accept the prestigious award during Wednesday’s ceremony in Oslo. Despite regularly publishing video messages against a neutral white background on social media platforms, her current physical location remains undisclosed and unknown to prize organizers.
In an official statement, the Nobel Institute acknowledged the extraordinary circumstances: “María Corina Machado has herself stated in interviews how challenging the journey to Oslo, Norway will be. We therefore cannot at this point provide any further information about when and how she will arrive for the Nobel peace prize ceremony.” This declaration marks a significant shift from previous assurances that she would attend the event in person.
The situation is further complicated by Venezuela’s government declaring Machado would be considered a “fugitive” should she depart the country. Attorney General Tarek William Saab previously informed AFP that numerous criminal investigations pending against the opposition leader—including allegations of “conspiracy, incitement of hatred, terrorism”—would automatically classify her as a fugitive upon leaving Venezuelan territory.
Notably, Machado’s family members have already arrived in Oslo, heightening anticipation about her potential appearance. The opposition leader had previously assured supporters of her intention to return to Venezuela following the award acceptance, despite the obvious risks involved.
Her appearance at the ceremony would mark her first public sighting since January 2025, when she participated in protests in Caracas against President Nicolás Maduro’s controversial inauguration. The 2024 election remains internationally disputed, with opposition tallies suggesting victory for their candidate Edmundo Gonzalez—a outcome recognized by several nations including the United States. Machado herself was prohibited from standing as a candidate in the election.