The Norwegian Nobel Committee’s citation for María Corina Machado included a crucial phrase: her struggle for a “just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” This reveals the committee’s deeply idealistic and holistic vision of peace, one that Donald Trump’s candidacy could not satisfy.
The phrase implies a dual focus. The transition must not only be “peaceful” (i.e., non-violent), but also “just.” This means it must lead to a society based on fairness, human rights, and the rule of law. A mere cessation of conflict without justice is not enough.
This idealistic standard is the lens through which all candidates are judged. Machado’s lifelong advocacy for free elections and democratic rights fits this vision perfectly.
Donald Trump’s deal-making, while often achieving a “peaceful” outcome in the short term, has been criticized for sometimes sacrificing the “just” part. His pragmatic approach often prioritizes stability over values like human rights.
The White House statement, which focuses on “ending wars,” reflects this more limited, pragmatic goal. But for the Nobel committee, peace without justice is a hollow victory. Their 2025 prize is a resounding endorsement of their belief that the two are inseparable.