World
A picture paints a thousand words
Updated : Feb 05, 2017, 12:36 PM IST
On Friday a photograph of Sweden's deputy prime minister Isabella Lovin signing a climate law erupted for looking eerily similar to that of US President Donald Trump signing a controversial executive order, blocking US federal funding for foreign NGOs that provide abortions.
In the picture, Lovin, who also serves as environment and development aid minister is seated at her desk signing the bill surrounded by her female colleagues, including one who is pregnant.
Just signed referral of Swedish #climate law, binding all future governments to net zero emissions by 2045. For a safer and better future. pic.twitter.com/OqOO2y8BU6
— Isabella Lövin (@IsabellaLovin) February 3, 2017
The shot which appears to immitate Trump's photo taken on January 23 in the White House got people's attention and had social media buzzing. The photo of Trump reinstating the global gag rule has incited much criticism for not having a single woman present for a decision that concerns women.
This group just made it more difficult for women to get access to health care worldwide. You tell me what's wrong with this picture. pic.twitter.com/8UQFWg8qO3
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) January 23, 2017
While Trump has been criticised for not having enough women in his cabinet, Sweden is known for its high level of women in the workplace, including in government.
Was the picture intended to be a subtle message to the new POTUS? "We are a feminist government, which shows in this photo. Ultimately it is up to the observer to interpret the photo," Lovin told AFP.
However you interpret it, the picture gained a lot of positive reaction:
@IsabellaLovin More women in politics means better policy decisions. Men have had their turn. All they do is start wars and chest pump.
— Steve Sperandeo (@stevesperandeo) February 3, 2017
@IsabellaLovin - You are the wind beneath my wings.
— Dolores of Course (@doloresm) February 3, 2017
Lovin signed the climate bill with the goal to have Sweden be carbon neutral by 2045. "There is a global demand for climate leadership. I want to show that Sweden is ready to take that leadership," she told AFP.
(With Agency Inputs)