Norwegian Peace Council Cancels Oslo Torch Procession for Nobel Honoring María Corina Machado

Overview

• The Norwegian Peace Council said it will not organize this year's traditional torch march in Oslo linked to the Nobel Peace Prize for the Venezuelan opposition leader.
• The coalition of 17 pacifist organizations cited a lack of alignment between the laureate and the council’s foundational principles.
• Council president Eline H. Lorentzen described the choice as difficult yet necessary and voiced respect for the Nobel Committee and the Peace Prize as an institution.
• The decision does not affect the Nobel Committee’s award, with the formal ceremony still scheduled for 10 December.
• Machado was selected on 10 October for promoting democratic rights and a peaceful transition in Venezuela and will receive 11 million Swedish kronor.