The world needs more leaders like Jacinda Ardern

It is awe-inspiring to watch New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern exhibit so much grace and compassion through her speech and actions. The manner in which she has handled the situation after the attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, is commendable. Her words and actions were carefully chosen and will prevent her nation from espousing anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant hatred.

The prime minister has won the hearts of millions all over the world. Her support and that of her administration matter. The NZ government stands by the victims and the Muslim community, is providing them comfort and sympathy, and not letting them feel they are immigrants.

It has allocated exclusive burial site and assured victims’ families that they would be looked after by the government through difficult time. She did not allow Muslim community to feel segregated or isolated.

More importantly, PM Jacinda Ardern has taken swift action on the issue of guns. She has announced a blanket ban on semi-automatic weapons — military style guns. As gun violence increases in many parts of the world, it is only essential to impose such a ban. New Zealand has set a good example. Guns and firearms need to be controlled everywhere.

Ardern’s vision of kindness is giving a new meaning to the principles of inclusion, diversity and compassion. She is a champion of humanity — a leader who maintains unity and harmony among all ethnicities. Leaders around the world should follow her lead to ensure peace and stability.

—Hanif A. Patel, Gujarat, India