The world welcomes a historic milestone as Celeste Saulo from Argentina becomes the first woman to lead the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Saulo, who has served as Vice-President and has led the Argentine Section since 2014, takes the helm at a pivotal moment for global weather and climate efforts. The Buenos Aires Times reported this achievement.
Members of the WMO gathered in Geneva for the climate congress and elected Saulo in a confidential vote to become president of the organization, signaling a new era in international meteorological leadership.
Following her election, Saulo emphasized the growing importance of the WMO in addressing climate change. She noted that the organization must strengthen meteorological and hydrological services and provide timely, accurate warnings to protect people and economies alike.
Saulo also highlighted a commitment to equity within the WMO, stating that the organization will ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable regions are heard on equal terms as representatives from other parts of the world.
Saulo is a professor at the University of Buenos Aires. She will succeed Petteri Taalas, the Finnish meteorologist who has led the WMO as Secretary-General, taking office on January 1, 2024, and overseeing the responsibilities of the 193-member body.
Earlier reporting noted a historical moment in another domain when, for the first time in the United States, a woman headed a naval aviation test center, underscoring a broader trend toward gender representation in high-level leadership roles across sectors.