Dame Jacinda Ardern was awarded one of New Zealand’s highest recognitions this week, receiving the Dame Grand Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her service to the country.
From the Office of the Prime Minister, it was noted that Ardern, at 37, became the youngest leader of the Labour Party in modern times. Her tenure saw decisive moves after the Christchurch attacks, including pushing for a nationwide gun ban. During the Covid-19 pandemic, New Zealand faced one of the lowest mortality rates in the Western world, and Ardern worked to reduce child poverty and advance a series of social policies that shaped the country’s response and recovery.
The official statement also mentioned that Ardern was listed among Fortune magazine’s top 50 world leaders in 2021, reflecting international recognition of her leadership on the world stage.
“Dame Jacinda Ardern, who served as Prime Minister from 2017 to 2023, is being recognized for her service to New Zealand,” Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said in a formal statement. The remarks highlighted the major challenges the country faced in recent years and the efforts to address them while maintaining social cohesion.
In comments shared with RNZ, Ardern expressed that the honor was incredibly meaningful, though she felt some hesitation about accepting recognition. She emphasized that the award was a way to thank her family, colleagues, and supporters who helped her undertake what she described as the most demanding and rewarding role of her life.
Ardern announced in January that she would resign as prime minister, explaining that she had given everything to the role, but that the position had also exacted a heavy personal cost. She indicated that October 14 would bring an election, noting that without sufficient energy and reserves, she could not responsibly continue facing unplanned and difficult circumstances on the job.