By Aisha Rufai Jega
Canada has appointed its first female Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement on Wednesday.
Carignan, who currently serves as the chief of professional conduct and culture, will replace Gen. Wayne Eyre, who is due to retire this summer.
She brings 35 years of service to her new role. She has commanded troops in Afghanistan, Bosnia, Iraq, and Syria, and has been recognized for her exceptional leadership and dedication.
Trudeau has been a strong advocate for gender equality. He previously appointed Brenda Lucki as the first female head of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 2018.
Carignan’s appointment comes at a critical time for the military, which faces challenges such as increasing defense spending and addressing sexism and misconduct within its ranks.
As the new Chief of the Defence Staff, she will be responsible for leading the military’s efforts to address these issues.
Carignan was born in Asbestos, Quebec, to a police officer father and teacher mother.
She joined the military in 1986, before women were allowed in combat roles. She trained as a combat engineer, clearing bombs and building structures. She rose through the ranks, proving herself in combat.
Women currently make up 16% of the Canadian military, and Lieutenant-General Carignan’s appointment is expected to help increase this number.
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