Jacinda Ardern given a top New Zealand honor for her service during shooting, pandemic

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Former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was bestowed with one of New Zealand’s highest honors on Monday in recognition of her exceptional service during a mass shooting and the ongoing pandemic. As part of King Charles III’s Birthday Honors, Ardern was granted the prestigious title of Dame Grand Companion, the second-highest distinction in the country. Consequently, she will now be referred to as Dame Jacinda. The selection of royal honorees occurs twice a year in New Zealand, with the prime minister’s recommendation requiring approval from Charles, who is both the British king and acknowledged as New Zealand’s king.

Assuming office at the age of 37 in 2017, Ardern swiftly became a global symbol for progressive values. However, she surprised the nation in January by announcing her resignation as prime minister after more than five years. Citing her inability to give the position the dedication it deserved, she admitted feeling depleted. Ardern faced mounting political pressures, particularly regarding her management of the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially applauded for her approach, she later faced criticism from opponents of mandates and regulations.

Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, who succeeded Ardern, praised her exceptional contribution during some of New Zealand’s most significant challenges in recent history. Leading the nation’s response to the 2019 terrorist attacks and the COVID-19 crisis placed immense pressure on the 40th prime minister. Hipkins, in a statement, personally witnessed Ardern’s unwavering commitment to New Zealand. He emphasized her role in implementing substantial changes to gun laws following the tragic massacre in which a white supremacist gunman killed fifty-one Muslim worshippers during Friday prayers at two Christchurch mosques. The subsequent buyback program resulted in over 50,000 firearms being surrendered to the authorities.

Reflecting on the honor bestowed upon her, Ardern expressed mixed emotions, contemplating whether to accept it. She acknowledged that much of what she was being recognized for represented the collective experiences of all New Zealanders. She humbly attributed her achievements to the support of her family, colleagues, and the nation as a whole. In the near future, Ardern will be temporarily joining Harvard University, having been appointed to dual fellowships at the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School. Additionally, she has taken on an unpaid role combating online extremism.

The King’s Birthday Honors list also acknowledged the exceptional accomplishments of rugby coach Wayne Smith, who played an instrumental role in leading New Zealand’s men’s and women’s rugby teams to World Cup victories. In adherence to tradition, Britain’s Queen Camilla received the highest accolade by being appointed to the Order of New Zealand.

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• Dame Grand Companion
• New Zealand gun laws
• Harvard Kennedy School
• Wayne Smith
• Order of New Zealand