Kevin Rudd

Kevin Michael Rudd (born 21 September 1957) is an Australian former politician who served as the 26th Prime Minister of Australia on two occasions: from 2007 to 2010 and again in 2013. He was the Leader of the Australian Labor Party from 2006 to 2010, and again briefly in 2013.

Born in Nambour, Queensland, Rudd studied at the Australian National University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Chinese studies. Prior to entering politics, he worked as a diplomat and public servant.

Rudd was first elected to the Australian House of Representatives for the Division of Griffith in Queensland in 1998. He served as Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2001 to 2005, and as Shadow Minister for Trade from 2005 to 2006.

In December 2006, Rudd successfully challenged Kim Beazley for the leadership of the Labor Party, becoming Leader of the Opposition. He led the Labor Party to victory in the 2007 federal election, defeating incumbent Prime Minister John Howard.

As Prime Minister, Rudd implemented a number of significant policies, including ratifying the Kyoto Protocol, issuing a formal apology to the Stolen Generations, and introducing a major economic stimulus package in response to the Global Financial Crisis. He also oversaw the National Broadband Network project and initiated reforms in health and education.

Rudd's first term as Prime Minister ended in June 2010 when he was challenged and defeated by Julia Gillard in an internal party ballot. He subsequently served as Foreign Minister in the Gillard government from 2010 to 2012.

In June 2013, Rudd successfully challenged Gillard for the leadership of the Labor Party, becoming Prime Minister for a second time. However, he led the Labor Party to defeat in the 2013 federal election against Tony Abbott. He subsequently resigned as leader and retired from Parliament.

Since leaving politics, Rudd has remained active in public life, particularly through his work with the Asia Society Policy Institute, where he served as President and CEO. He has also been a vocal commentator on international affairs and Australian politics.