## Leadership Rooted in Empathy Former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern reflects on leadership that is both firm and compassionate. She argues that empathy means little unless it leads to tangible change. Her time in office, she explains, demanded constant balance between swift decisions and the human impact they carried. > “Empathy is nothing without action,” said Ardern during the interview, highlighting how compassion must translate into policy and reform. ## Responding to Tragedy with Purpose Ardern describes how national trauma, particularly the Christchurch mosque attacks, reshaped her government’s priorities. Her response was driven by empathy but defined by decisive policy — most notably, the rapid reform of New Zealand’s firearms laws. The process, though complex and politically charged, became a model of responsive governance. ## Reimagining Political Leadership Beyond crisis response, Ardern advocates for a broader idea of political leadership — one centered on trust, authenticity, and care. She emphasizes the need for transparency and humility in a political culture often defined by division and speed. Her approach, which prioritizes emotional intelligence alongside strategy, has set new expectations for what leadership can look like in the modern world. ## Continuing the Conversation Although she stepped down as prime minister, Ardern continues to speak on topics of compassion and radicalisation prevention. Her international work focuses on countering hate and promoting inclusivity through respectful dialogue and cooperative policy efforts. > “We cannot afford to lose our sense of collective responsibility,” she reminds global audiences, urging leaders to act not from fear, but from care. *** **Author summary:** Jacinda Ardern reflects on leadership that turns empathy into policy, advocating decisive, compassionate governance in response to crisis and division.

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Monocle — 2025-11-28