European Parliament Awards 2024 Sakharov Prize

The European Parliament awarded the 2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought to Venezuelan opposition leaders Edmundo González Urrutia and María Corina Machado for their courageous efforts in defending democracy in Venezuela. President Roberta Metsola emphasized their significant contributions toward restoring freedom and ensuring a peaceful transition of power, despite facing severe repression from the current regime. González, who received the award in person, highlighted the ongoing struggle against a government that undermines human rights, while Machado accepted the prize via video link due to her situation in Venezuela. The award acknowledges the legitimacy of González as Venezuela's rightful president, as declared by the European Parliament amid widespread allegations of fraud in the recent elections. The Sakharov Prize, established in 1988, recognizes individuals or groups that defend human rights and basic freedoms, further underscoring the EU's commitment to supporting democracy globally.