The days of COVID brought the name 'Jacinda Ardern' closer to many of us. During her two tenures as the Prime Minister of New Zealand, like all her counterparts across the world, she had to make rough political and policy decisions. Even when she had strong opposition from her own citizens, she was praised for her personality and some of her strong moves by the outside world.
The country had a very low death rate due to her strong decision of keeping the borders closed and strict enforcement of COVID regulations within the country. It had affected the bottom workforce and unemployment issues had been raised later, yet her firm decision made the country safe from the deadly virus.
She is said to be the second woman ever in the entire world to bear child after assuming the top most position in the country. Delivering child and taking care did not stop her from attending high profile meetings such as the UN's carrying her child along. This became viral and portrayed to the world that 'glass ceilings' are worth discussing every now and then. Becoming a mother herself, she brought in new maternity rules.
She vehemently made decisions towards eradication of tobacco, particularly among the youngsters who supposedly are the future of the country.
Besides, she proved to be a loyal worker for the citizens at times of natural disaster (volcanic eruption) and man-made disaster (terrorist attack). Everywhere she reiterated the fact that she was one among the victims and she stood by them at those difficult times.
It is never easy for a woman to hold a high position in the hierarchy and sustain without a strong fall. She withstood many with her head held high. Yet, her announcement on resigning and retiring came as a shock to many of us. But it takes a lot of courage to publicly state her reason as she did; no men would be daring to the same. Quoting her 'There isn't enough in the tank,' - She admits that she could take only this much and would like to divert her energy on her marriage and kid which is universally common.
Though there can be no man on earth to quit politics for family reasons, may be this is how women choose to live. Either to fight, sacrifice and withstand personal losses - like many women leaders we had witnessed - in a long run in politics or quit at some point in time and lead a (hopefully) peaceful life.
I personally do not think that this action of hers could ever question the leadership of a woman. On contrary, it says women are stronger to make harder decisions! No matter what, Jacinda Ardern is truly an inspiration and a story to be told to our younger girls. ЁЯТЭ
PC: The Vogue
