Analyse
The quoted statement matches **verbatim** Ardern’s remarks in her **March 16, 2019, press conference** (the day after the attack), where she emphasized unity and rejected the terrorist’s ideology as representative of New Zealand. The phrase *“This is not who we are”* was a recurring theme in her speeches post-attack, including in parliamentary addresses and interviews. Multiple credible news outlets (e.g., *The Guardian*, *NZ Herald*, *BBC*) reported these exact or near-identical words, and the New Zealand government’s official transcripts confirm the sentiment and phrasing.
Achtergrond
On **March 15, 2019**, a far-right extremist killed 51 people in attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s response was widely noted for its emphasis on compassion, inclusivity, and rejection of hatred, including her refusal to name the attacker to deny him notoriety. Her leadership during the crisis was globally praised for uniting the country under the slogan *“They are us”* (referring to the Muslim community).
Samenvatting verdict
Jacinda Ardern did make this statement during a press conference following the March 15, 2019, Christchurch mosque attacks, and it aligns with her documented remarks and public stance on inclusivity.