News|Julian AssangeJulian Assange files complaint against Nobel Foundation over Machado prizeWikiLeaks founder said awarding Venezuela’s opposition leader is a ‘gross misappropriation’ of funds and risks facilitating war crimes.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has initiated a legal complaint in Sweden against the Nobel Foundation. The complaint challenges the decision to award the Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has initiated a legal complaint in Sweden against the Nobel Foundation. The complaint challenges the decision to award the Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.
Assange claims that the awarding of the prize to Machado constitutes a misappropriation of funds under Swedish law. He seeks to prevent the transfer of 11 million Swedish kronor ($1.18 million) intended as prize money for Machado.
Assange's complaint, filed recently, accuses 30 individuals associated with the Nobel Foundation of various charges, including misappropriation of funds and facilitating war crimes.
The Nobel Committee awarded Machado the prize for her efforts in promoting democratic rights and supporting a peaceful transition in Venezuela.
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has initiated a legal complaint in Sweden against the Nobel Foundation.
Machado's selection has been controversial due to her expressed support for certain international policies. This includes her alignment with U.S. President Donald Trump's actions against Venezuela's government.
Assange argues that Machado's endorsement of military actions excludes her from being a candidate for the prize, as it contradicts the criteria set by Alfred Nobel's will.
WikiLeaks has raised concerns that the prize funds may be used for purposes contrary to their intended charitable goals. The Peace Prize is awarded by a Norwegian committee, but Assange insists that the Stockholm-based foundation should bear financial responsibility.
Swedish authorities have confirmed receipt of the complaint.
Julian Assange established WikiLeaks in 2006 and gained recognition for publishing sensitive leaks in 2010. He previously resided in Ecuador's London embassy and was later imprisoned in the UK. Assange was released in 2024 following a plea deal with the U.S. Department of Justice.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
