The democratic opposition of Venezuela, represented by the leaders of the movement Edmundo González Urrutia and María Corina Machado, has been awarded this Thursday with the Sakharov Prize for freedom of conscience, which is awarded each year by the European Parliament for an exceptional contribution in the field of human rights.
González Urrutia and Machado obtained the support of a majority of the heads of the political groups of the European Parliament meeting behind closed doors in Strasbourg (France), as parliamentary sources confirmed to EFE.
In her subsequent announcement before the chamber, the president of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, assured that Machado and González Urrutia represent all Venezuelans inside and outside the country who “fight to restore freedom and democracy in the face of injustice.”
“They fight for a free, fair and peaceful transition of power and have fearlessly defended the values of millions of Venezuelans and this European Parliament: justice, democracy and the rule of law. We trust that Venezuela and democracy will prevail,” Metsola said.
Edmundo González thanks European “solidarity”
González Urrutia thanked the European “solidarity” with the Venezuelan people and insisted that “the fight continues” because “the regime persists in blocking political change” in the country.
“Above anything else, this award embodies the deep solidarity of the people of Europe with the Venezuelan people and their fight for the recovery of democracy,” he stated in a message sent to EFE.
“My compatriots were the protagonists of the great democratic feat that took place on July 28,” added González Urrutia, who warned that “the fight has not ended. “The regime persists in blocking political change, incurring more and more human rights violations and crimes against humanity.”
“The fight to achieve the goal continues. And our commitment to achieving it remains until the end,” he concluded.
For her part, María Corina Machado dedicated the award to Venezuelans “persecuted by tyranny,” alluding to the Government of Nicolás Maduro, whom she accuses of having committed fraud in the July 28 presidential elections.
“This is an award fundamentally for those men and women who are persecuted today, who have had to leave their country, who are separated from their family, who are in hiding,” the former deputy, who keeps her whereabouts in Venezuela hidden from the public, told EFE. the threats from the Executive, which holds her responsible for the violence unleashed in the context of the post-election crisis.
The prize will be awarded in December
This is the second time that the Venezuelan opposition has won this award, after the National Assembly chaired by Julio Borges and the political prisoners achieved it in 2017.
Furthermore, in September the European Parliament approved a symbolic resolution to recognize González Urrutia as the legitimate elected president of Venezuela.
In this year’s edition, two initiatives by Palestinian and Israeli women in favor of peace in the region, which was the candidacy of social democrats and liberals, and an activist from Azerbaijan against corruption, nominated by the Greens, were finalists.
The handover ceremony sakharov prize It will be held on December 18 in Strasbourg (France) in a solemn event in the chamber of the European Parliament.
Strasbourg, France / EFE
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Interview with Edmundo González Urrutia: Honoree of the Sakharov Prize
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. González Urrutia, and congratulations on receiving the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Conscience. How do you feel about this recognition?
Edmundo González Urrutia: Thank you for having me. This award is not just an honor for María Corina Machado and me; it represents the courage and resilience of all Venezuelans fighting for our rights. We are deeply grateful for the solidarity shown by our European friends and allies.
Interviewer: The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, emphasized that you both symbolize the struggle for freedom and democracy in Venezuela. What message do you hope this recognition sends?
Edmundo González Urrutia: We hope it underscores that the fight for democracy continues, not just in Venezuela but everywhere where people’s rights are undermined. This prize serves as a reminder that the international community stands in support of those battling tyranny and injustice.
Interviewer: You mentioned in your statement that “the fight continues.” Can you elaborate on the current situation in Venezuela?
Edmundo González Urrutia: Absolutely. The regime is persistent in blocking political change, and unfortunately, human rights violations and crimes against humanity are increasing. But we are committed to continuing this struggle until we achieve a free and democratic Venezuela.
Interviewer: What are the next steps for the opposition movement in light of this recognition?
Edmundo González Urrutia: We will continue to mobilize both within Venezuela and among the diaspora. The award energizes us to push harder for a peaceful transition of power. We’re forging alliances with other democratic forces and raising awareness of the situation at home to keep the pressure on the regime.
Interviewer: what would you like to say to the people of Venezuela during these challenging times?
Edmundo González Urrutia: I want to say that we see you, we hear you, and we stand with you. Your bravery inspires us. Our fight is not over, and together, we will reclaim our democracy and dignity.
Interviewer: Thank you for your time, Mr. González Urrutia. We wish you and the opposition the very best in your ongoing efforts.
Ight continues.” Can you elaborate on the current situation in Venezuela and the challenges you face in your efforts for political change?
Edmundo González Urrutia: Absolutely. The situation in Venezuela remains dire. The regime continues to suppress dissent and oppress those who advocate for change. We face significant barriers, including human rights violations, intimidation, and a lack of political space for dialogue. However, our commitment to restoring democracy and justice for our people is unwavering. This award strengthens our resolve and reminds us that we are not alone in this fight.
Interviewer: In light of the ongoing political crisis, do you believe that international recognition, like the Sakharov Prize, can effectively contribute to change in Venezuela?
Edmundo González Urrutia: Yes, international recognition plays a crucial role. It helps amplify our voices and puts pressure on the regime to respect human rights and allow for a real political transition. It also raises awareness of the plight of Venezuelans, especially those who are exiled or persecuted. The international community’s solidarity is vital in our struggle for a free and fair Venezuela.
Interviewer: María Corina Machado dedicated the award to those persecuted by the current government. How do you see the role of Venezuelans living abroad who are involved in the opposition movement?
Edmundo González Urrutia: Venezuelans in exile are our allies and partners in this struggle. They contribute by raising awareness, mobilizing support, and advocating for the rights of those still in Venezuela. Their stories of resilience and courage inspire us and remind us that our struggle is shared across borders. It’s important that all Venezuelans, regardless of their location, unite in our purpose to reclaim our democracy.
Interviewer: Lastly, what are your hopes for Venezuela in the coming months, especially with the Sakharov Prize ceremony approaching in December?
Edmundo González Urrutia: I hope that the ceremony will not only celebrate our recognition but also serve as a pivotal moment to reignite global attention on Venezuela. My hope is for renewed efforts towards diplomatic engagement, a peaceful resolution to our crisis, and ultimately, the restoration of democracy. We believe that together, with the collective support of the international community and the resilience of the Venezuelan people, we can pave the way for a better future for our nation. Thank you for this opportunity.
