New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon issued a public apology and promised reforms after a shocking report revealed that around 200,000 children, young people, and vulnerable adults were subjected to abuse in state and religious care over the past seven decades. The inquiry found that nearly one in three individuals in care between 1950 and 2019 experienced some form of abuse, leading to potential compensation claims in the billions.
Luxon described the findings as a “dark and sorrowful day” in New Zealand’s history and expressed determination to do better moving forward. Survivors and supporters packed the public gallery during the report debate, highlighting the magnitude of the issue.
The Royal Commission of Inquiry report detailed horrific abuses such as rape, sterilization, and electric shocks, with Indigenous Maori individuals and those with disabilities being particularly vulnerable. The report made 138 recommendations, including public apologies from government officials and faith leaders.
The Catholic and Anglican churches in New Zealand acknowledged their failures to protect those in their care and promised action in response to the report. The government will need to address compensation issues, with Luxon estimating potential costs reaching into the billions.