Felix Maradiaga

Félix Maradiaga is a Nicaraguan academic, entrepreneur, political activist, and human rights defender recognized as one of Latin America’s most prominent voices for democracy. In addition to his leadership in exile as the principal opposition figure against the Ortega dictatorship, he is widely regarded as a leading advocate for democratic values across the region. Maradiaga has founded and led ventures in multiple industries—including impact investing, education services, and renewable energy—combining entrepreneurship with a strong social mission. Alongside his wife, Berta Valle, he has been a pioneer in Latin America in promoting Bitcoin as a tool for philanthropy, human rights, and the protection of civil liberties. His professional and academic career spans more than 55 countries, where he has worked as a consultant, keynote speaker, and trainer on governance and civic resistance. He previously served as the youngest Secretary General of Nicaragua’s Ministry of Defense (2004–2006) and directed post-war reintegration programs for former combatants and victims (1997–2003). After leaving government, he founded a center dedicated to nonviolence and pro-democracy activism. During Nicaragua’s 2018 civic uprising, he survived assassination attempts and politically motivated prosecutions. In 2021, after announcing his presidential candidacy, he was detained by the Ortega regime and held for 611 days under inhumane conditions, including extended periods of solitary confinement, before being released in February 2023 with 221 other political prisoners. He was stripped of his nationality, had his property and businesses confiscated, and was expelled to the United States. Formally nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, Maradiaga now serves as President of the Foundation for the Freedom of Nicaragua, is a Trustee of Freedom House, leads the World Liberty Congress Academy, and teaches at the University of Virginia and Johns Hopkins University.