Venezuelan opposition rally in Caracas in July 2024: A turning point for the country’s democratic future
The historic rally of the Venezuelan opposition held in Caracas in July 2024 marked a turning point in the struggle for genuine democracy in the country. With the world watching, Maria Corina Machado, an iconic figure of the opposition, raised the hand of presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, symbolizing the unity and determination of the movement.
This meeting, which raised immense hope among the Venezuelan people, was the scene of a landmark event: the awarding of the prestigious Sakharov Prize to Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia. This distinction, awarded by the European Union for Human Rights, recognizes the courage and unwavering commitment of these two political leaders to a peaceful democratic transition in Venezuela.
Since the contested re-election of President Nicolas Maduro, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia has gone into exile in Spain, while Maria Corina Machado has been leading a clandestine fight against the regime in power. Their determination to defend the democratic values and fundamental rights of Venezuelans has been unanimously praised by the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, who highlighted their commitment to justice, democracy and the rule of law.
The Sakharov Prize, a true tribute to freedom of thought, rewards each year individuals or organisations committed to the defence of human rights and fundamental freedoms. By awarding this distinction to Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, the European Union has sent a strong message of support to the Venezuelan people in their fight for democracy and justice.
In addition to the laureates, other finalists were in the running for the Sakharov Prize this year, demonstrating the diversity and richness of commitment to human rights around the world. Among them, Gubad Ibadoghlu, an Azerbaijani economist and activist in detention, symbolises resistance to oppression and injustice.
Faced with the crucial issues at stake in Venezuela, where democracy is undermined by an authoritarian regime, the support of the international community is essential. The Sakharov Prize, by rewarding the courage and determination of Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, helps to shine a light on the struggle for freedom and democracy that animates many peoples around the world.
At this pivotal time for Venezuela, where the hope of democratic change is on the horizon, the opposition rally in Caracas in July 2024 will be remembered as a decisive moment in the country’s historyThe voice of the Venezuelan people resonates strongly through the actions and commitments of political leaders who are fighting for a better future.