Helen Clark named one of the world’s most powerful women

Helen Clark has been named as one of the world’s most powerful women.

The former New Zealand Prime Minister and UNDP administrator was number 22 on The World’s 100 Most Powerful Women list published yesterday by Forbes magazine.

Clark, who is campaigning to be the United Nations’ Secretary-General was thrilled to be on the list.

“I’m pleased to report that I’m on it as number 22,” she said on her Facebook page.

“I’ve featured on it for many years as first New Zealand Prime Minister, and then as UNDP Administrator. Both positions have given me a platform from which to advocate and work for people and our planet – I’m passionate about human and sustainable development, and now seek to apply my energies to being the next United Nations Secretary General.”

The UNDP administrator is in esteemed company on the list which is led by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and includes Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton at number 2, First Lady Michelle Obama at 13 and talk-show queen Oprah Winfrey just before Clark at 21.

The publication describes her as being “the most powerful woman in the United Nations and the first UNDP female head”.

“Helen Clark uses her global bully pulpit and billions in funds to assist development and humanitarian efforts around the world. This year she finds herself among eight candidates vying for an even higher post: UN Secretary-General,” Forbes reported.

Words: Nicola Russell

Photo: Stuart Ramson

Now to Love