New Zealand: In an emotional farewell speech, former New Zealand Prime Minister Ms. Jacinda Ardern urged politicians to prioritize climate change by setting aside political differences. Ms. Ardern implored lawmakers to work together and take action against the urgent threat of climate change, as she bid farewell to parliament.
Earlier this year, Mr. Ardern surprised New Zealand by announcing her resignation as prime minister and exit from parliament, claiming she no longer had “enough in the tank.” “It was a cross between a sense of duty to steer a moving freight train… and being hit by one,” the former PM quipped during her valedictory address.
As Prime Minister, Ms. Ardern guided New Zealand through a series of significant events, including natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the tragic 2019 Christchurch mosque shooting. The attack, which was carried out by a white supremacist gunman and resulted in the deaths of 51 Muslim worshippers, was a defining moment for Ms. Ardern’s leadership.
The former prime minister’s compassionate response and swift action in the aftermath of the tragedy were widely praised both regionally and internationally. Ms. Ardern’s steady leadership during times of crisis has earned her widespread respect and admiration from people around the world.
However, Ms. Ardern highlighted the climate crisis as the most significant issue of her political career. The former PM emphasized the urgent need for action to address the global crisis, calling on leaders to prioritize the well-being of the planet over short-term political interests.
Ms. Ardern’s strong stance on climate change has been a hallmark of her leadership, and she has championed several initiatives aimed at reducing New Zealand’s carbon footprint and promoting sustainable development. The former PM’s unwavering commitment to tackling the climate crisis has positioned her as a leading voice on this critical issue on the world stage.