Venezuela’s opposition party leaders may have been stonewalled by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s regime regarding the country’s presidential election, denying them their rightful place as victors. However, the European Union has acknowledged their efforts and plight by recognizing them with a human rights prize. 

The country’s election was held on July 28, but Maduro and Edmundo Gonzalez, the opposition candidate, declared victory. It is speculated that Gonzalez was the actual winner of the election, but governing bodies in Venezuela, loyal to Maduro, declared him the winner. Despite opposition to his claim and numerous protests and demonstrations, he has refused to concede or step down as president. Maduro has been widely criticized and condemned by the international community.