Jacinda Ardern Honored with Damehood by Prince William

The former New Zealand Prime Minister received the accolade for her leadership and service, though her acceptance has sparked mixed reactions.

Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, was made a Dame Grand Commander of the New Zealand Order of Merit at a ceremony in Windsor Castle.
The honor was presented by Prince William, with whom Ardern has collaborated on the Earthshot Prize, an environmental initiative.
Ardern expressed feeling 'incredibly honored and very humbled,' seeing the award as recognition of her family, colleagues, and the New Zealanders she served.
Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Christchurch terror attacks were cited as key reasons for the recognition.
Despite her republican views, Ardern accepted the damehood, sparking a range of responses from both supporters and critics.