Simonetta Sommaruga, President of the Swiss Confederation, delivered a masterful talk to her fellow citizens late last week, speaking calmly yet firmly about measures her nation is taking to deal with Coronavirus. In doing so, she set a standard for national leadership communication at a time of crisis and uncertainty.
The Social Democratic leader understands the science and public health implications. She spoke in measured, factual and non-political terms that focused on both short- and long-term needs. She acknowledged that there are many unknowns, which is especially true given that her nation is located in the eye of the Coronavirus storm in Europe.
There was no blame, no babbling and no inconsistency since she, as with any thoughtful, intelligent leader, understands that speaking in childish, self-obsessed terms just makes matters worse. Oh, and she delivered her remarks in four languages, not uncommon in Switzerland but enviable in other nations whose leaders cannot even speak one language.
It may be hard to find them in this hour of need, especially in the U.S. and U.K., but excellent national leaders do exist and merit our praise.
The Social Democratic leader understands the science and public health implications. She spoke in measured, factual and non-political terms that focused on both short- and long-term needs. She acknowledged that there are many unknowns, which is especially true given that her nation is located in the eye of the Coronavirus storm in Europe.
There was no blame, no babbling and no inconsistency since she, as with any thoughtful, intelligent leader, understands that speaking in childish, self-obsessed terms just makes matters worse. Oh, and she delivered her remarks in four languages, not uncommon in Switzerland but enviable in other nations whose leaders cannot even speak one language.
It may be hard to find them in this hour of need, especially in the U.S. and U.K., but excellent national leaders do exist and merit our praise.
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