Compassion with strength, optimism with focus – as prime minister of New Zealand and leader of the Labour Party, Jacinda Ardern showed the world what true leadership means. The Party of European Socialists (PES) thanks her for her contribution to the global progressive political family and wishes her well for the future.
Five and a half years after taking office, prime minister Ardern announced her resignation at a press conference on Thursday.
PES President Stefan Löfven said:
“Jacinda Ardern has done so much for so many. She navigated New Zealand through some of its biggest challenges, always with compassion and understanding. She leaves office with a proud record. I highly appreciate our common efforts for a stronger multilateral cooperation with the ambition of a fairer world. We wish her every success for the future.”
As leader of the New Zealand Labour Party, Jacinda Ardern built strong links with fellow progressives in other parts of the world. Ahead of the 2019 European elections, she met PES common candidate Frans Timmermans in Brussels and often contributed video messages and letters for PES events.
Progressive policies such as housing, child poverty and climate change were on the top of the agenda for her government and much was achieved despite the difficult times. Prime minister Ardern led New Zealand through major events including the Covid-19 pandemic, and disasters such as the terror attack on two mosques in Christchurch, and the White Island volcanic eruption.
PES Executive Secretary General Giacomo Filibeck, who knows Ardern from their time in the International Union of Socialist Youth, added:
“Her unique and authentic leadership, her intelligence, integrity and humility have been an inspiration across the globe for a new generation of progressives who will do their upmost to uphold the values she stands for.”