Forbes media published a list of the 100 most powerful women in politics. First is Angela Merkel, the Chancellor of Germany. Second is Teresa May, the UK Prime Minister, third is Tsa Ing-Wen, Taiwan’s President. At number 6 is Ivanka Trump, President Trump’s daughter. At number 8 is Queen Elizabeth. At number 13 is Jacinda Ardern, the new Prime Minister of New Zealand. She is also the youngest female leader. Australia does not have a woman politician in the top 100.
However, amongst the member states of the United Nations, less than 10% have a woman leader.
Forbes magazine is an American business magazine, published in many languages across the world.
It is really too soon to know whether Jacinda Ardern will be a powerful leader. She was probably chosen by Forbes because her appointment as Prime Minister was such a change from the previous male-led government. She is also very young to be in this role although she has been in Parliament for 9 years, so she has some experience as a politician. She is attractive, dresses well, and is a very good communicator. All these qualities have helped to make her popular.
Young people probably know that she appeared as a DJ at a popular music festival a few years ago. She says she likes live music and attending gigs. Does this make her a powerful world leader though?
Note: the Queen does not have any political power although it is possible that her character influences people.
Vocabulary
• DJ (deejay) – disc jockey, someone who introduces the music
• A gig – a performance, usually by a band.