OTTAWA – In a historic milestone for Canada, General Jennie Carignan has been appointed as the country’s first female Chief of the Defence Staff. This significant development marks a new chapter in Canadian military history.
General Carignan succeeds General Wayne Eyre, who had been serving as the Chief of the Armed Forces since 2021. Throughout her distinguished career in the Canadian Army, Carignan has led troops in various international conflict zones, including Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iraq, and Syria.
Expressing her readiness for the new role, Carignan stated, “I feel ready, poised, and supported to take on this manifold challenge.” She made these remarks during a ceremony at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.
Addressing the complex global landscape, Carignan highlighted the various challenges that lie ahead, including the conflict in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, the impacts of climate change, and the increased demands on military personnel both domestically and internationally. “Conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East, heightened tensions elsewhere around the world, climate change, increased demands on our personnel at home and abroad, and threats to our democratic values and institutions are but a few of the complex challenges we need to adapt to and counter,” Carignan was quoted as saying by international media.
Earlier this month, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Carignan’s appointment, expressing confidence in her leadership. “I am confident that, as Canada’s new Chief of the Defence Staff, she will help Canada be stronger, more secure, and ready to tackle global security challenges,” Trudeau remarked.
General Carignan is not only a highly decorated soldier but also a mother of four children, two of whom are currently serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. Her appointment is seen as an inspiration and a significant step towards gender equality in the military.
Carignan’s leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Canadian Armed Forces as they navigate through contemporary global security challenges and strive to uphold democratic values and institutions.
