Incoming New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has called for men to call out misogyny and abuse women on sight, saying the way Jacinda Ardern’s predecessor was viewed by some as “absolutely disgusting.”
“I think we often leave women to say ‘this is not okay and I don’t feel okay about it’ and many women do not feel comfortable speaking in that way,” Hipkins told a press conference in Wellington. “So I think we as men have a responsibility to call when we see it and say it’s okay.”
Ardern said her abuses as prime minister played no role in her shock resignation last week, citing a lack of energy after five grueling years leading the country through crisis after crisis. However, former prime minister Helen Clark said Ardern was facing unprecedented levels of hatred and vitriol.
While Ardern has been a torchbearer for liberal values on the global stage during her five years as prime minister, giving birth to her position and promoting empathetic leadership, she has also been the target of misogyny and personal attacks for some who objected to strict social restrictions. fight Covid-19.
Anti-government protesters often carry placards saying things like “Jabcinda” and “beautiful communist,” and they receive threats from the public.
After she announced her resignation, Fox News host Tucker Carlson called Ardern a “woman with big teeth” and a Chinese puppet who abuses its citizens.
Hipkins paid tribute to Ardern on Sunday, saying she was one of New Zealand’s prime ministers who gave a voice to people often ignored in difficult times.
“Jacinda’s leadership has been an inspiration to women and girls everywhere,” she said. “But it’s also a reminder that we have a way to go to ensure that women in leadership receive the same respect as their male counterparts.”
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