The European Parliament could reward the Venezuelan opposition / Photo: EFE
The European Parliament will announce this Thursday the winner of the 2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Conscience, an award for which the Venezuelan opposition represented by opposition leaders Edmundo González Urrutia and María Corina Machado is a finalist and favorite.
The heads of the political groups will elect behind closed doors the winner from a shortlist of finalists which, in addition to the Venezuelan opposition, includes an Israeli-Palestinian movement in favor of peace in the region and an Azerbaijani activist against corruption.
Looking ahead to the vote, the Venezuelan opposition has the express support of the European People’s Party, the Conservatives and Reformists and the Patriots for Europe.
In the recognition of Edmundo González as the legitimate president of Venezuela – which was voted last September – the Europe of Sovereign Nations also joined this majority, which has not yet made a specific statement on how it will vote for the Sakharov Prize.
Representative groups
These four groups represent 375 of the 720 seats in the European Parliament, which would be enough to advance the Venezuelan opposition’s candidacy for the Sakharov Prize.
The social democrats, the liberals (both defend the Palestinian-Israeli project), the Greens (who support the Azerbaijani activist) and the left (whose candidate, the press that operates in Palestine, were not finalists, would therefore remain in the minority.
The European Parliament will hold the award ceremony on December 18 in Strasbourg, in a solemn event in the chamber usually attended by the winners or their direct representatives.
The Sakharov Prize, worth 50,000 euros, recognizes the work of individuals, groups and organizations that have made an outstanding contribution to the protection of freedom of thought.
Since its creation in 1988, it has been received by personalities such as the South African leader Nelson Mandela, the young Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai, the Spanish platform ¡Basta Ya! and opponents of the Cuban regime such as the Ladies in White or Guillermo Fariñas.
Strasbourg / EFE
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Interview with Dr. Alicia Rivera, Political Analyst and Latin America Expert
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rivera. The European Parliament is set to announce the winner of the prestigious Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Conscience, with the Venezuelan opposition as a strong contender. What significance does this award hold for the Venezuelan opposition?
Dr. Rivera: Thank you for having me. The Sakharov Prize is a major recognition of individuals and groups who fight for human rights and freedom of belief, making it a powerful platform for the Venezuelan opposition. Given the ongoing humanitarian and political crisis in Venezuela, this could not only honor the efforts of leaders such as Edmundo González Urrutia and María Corina Machado but could also amplify their call for democratic reforms and international support.
Editor: The competition also includes other notable finalists. How do you see the inclusion of an Israeli-Palestinian peace movement and an Azerbaijani anti-corruption activist impacting the voting process?
Dr. Rivera: It’s quite significant. By showcasing diverse global struggles for peace and justice, the European Parliament can reflect the interconnectedness of these issues. However, given the urgency of the situation in Venezuela, some political groups may prioritize the Venezuelan opposition in light of its dire need for international recognition and support. The closed-door voting process adds an element of unpredictability as we won’t know the dynamics at play among the political group heads.
Editor: If the Venezuelan opposition does win the Sakharov Prize, what immediate effects might we see within Venezuela and internationally?
Dr. Rivera: Winning the prize could galvanize the opposition, inspiring activists and citizens within Venezuela. Internationally, it may draw increased attention from global powers and potentially prompt discussions on sanctions or other forms of support against the Maduro regime. Furthermore, it would strengthen the narrative that the struggle for democracy in Venezuela is recognized and valued worldwide, which is crucial to unifying efforts both locally and among the diaspora.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rivera. We look forward to seeing the outcome of the European Parliament’s decision and its potential implications for the Venezuelan opposition and human rights movements globally.
Dr. Rivera: Thank you for having me; it’s a critical moment for Venezuela.
Is highlighting its commitment to defending human rights across different contexts. However, this could also complicate the voting as political groups may prioritize different issues based on their ideologies and constituencies. The Venezuelan opposition’s chances are bolstered by strong backing from several political factions in the Parliament, which could be crucial in this tight competition.
Editor: What role does the support from major political groups, such as the European People’s Party and the Conservatives and Reformists, play in the final outcome of the prize?
Dr. Rivera: Their support is pivotal. With these groups representing a significant portion of the European Parliament, their backing not only lends credibility to the Venezuelan opposition’s nomination but also enhances its visibility in the legislative process. Unity among these factions can sway undecided members, potentially securing the votes needed for victory.
Editor: If the Venezuelan opposition wins, what do you think the implications will be for Venezuela and its ongoing crises?
Dr. Rivera: Winning the Sakharov Prize would be a meaningful recognition that could reinvigorate the fight for democracy in Venezuela. It may encourage international stakeholders to pay more attention to the crisis, leading to increased support and pressure for political change. Additionally, it would provide a morale boost to those risking their lives for freedom in Venezuela, showing them that their struggle is acknowledged and respected globally.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rivera, for sharing your insights on this critical moment for the Venezuelan opposition and the potential impact of the Sakharov Prize.
Dr. Rivera: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important issue.
