Women make better president prime minister

In particular, Ardern’s response to Covid-19, including her empathetic and straight- forward speeches, have led many to claim her to be the most effective leader on the planet. While others pondered closing their borders, Ardern quickly implemented strict quarantine measures. As a result, New Zealand has to date recorded just 22 deaths and effectively stopped community transmission. “Jacinda is an authentic person and comes across that way,” says Caroline Fisher, a former spin doctor and assistant professor of journalism at University of Canberra. “During the Covid-19 lockdown, she led the country from her lounge in her tracksuit, holding daily live-streamed chats. She led by example. She doesn’t live in a grand presidential home, she lives in her three-bedroom house with her partner and child in a regular neighborhood. She seems to effortlessly juggle motherhood and leadership. She exudes warmth. She is eloquent and strong.”

• In particular, Ardern’s response to Covid-19, including her empathetic and straight- forward speeches, have led many to claim her to be the most effective leader on the planet. While others pondered closing their borders, Ardern quickly implemented strict quarantine measures. As a result, New Zealand has to date recorded just 22 deaths and effectively stopped community transmission. “Jacinda is an authentic person and comes across that way,” says Caroline Fisher, a former spin doctor and assistant professor of journalism at University of Canberra. “During the Covid-19 lockdown, she led the country from her lounge in her tracksuit, holding daily live-streamed chats. She led by example. She doesn’t live in a grand presidential home, she lives in her three-bedroom house with her partner and child in a regular neighborhood. She seems to effortlessly juggle motherhood and leadership. She exudes warmth. She is eloquent and strong.”

In Europe, Merkel might not show Ardern’s humor and compassion, but Mutti (Mom), as she is affectionately known, is respected for her sensible and reliable judgement. A scientist with a doctorate in quantum chemistry, she has been pragmatic throughout the crisis and her speeches to the point. “Merkel’s image is one of dependability and rationality,” explains Fisher. “She relies on evidence to make decisions and is a steady pair of hands. While she is politically conservative, she is also compassionate. She isn’t exciting, but she is authentic, consistent, and trustworthy.”

• In Europe, Merkel might not show Ardern’s humor and compassion, but Mutti (Mom), as she is affectionately known, is respected for her sensible and reliable judgement. A scientist with a doctorate in quantum chemistry, she has been pragmatic throughout the crisis and her speeches to the point. “Merkel’s image is one of dependability and rationality,” explains Fisher. “She relies on evidence to make decisions and is a steady pair of hands. While she is politically conservative, she is also compassionate. She isn’t exciting, but she is authentic, consistent, and trustworthy.”