NEW ZEALAND INQUIRY FINDS 200,000 ABUSED IN STATE AND FAITH-BASED INSTITUTIONS

Thu 25 July 2024:

An independent inquiry revealed that New Zealand’s state and faith-based institutions abused approximately 200,000 children, young people, and vulnerable adults over 70 years.

“National Disgrace” Unveiled by Royal Commission

The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care reported on Wednesday that nearly one in three individuals in state or religious care from 1950 to 2019 experienced abuse, calling it a “national disgrace”.

“If this injustice is not addressed, it will remain as a stain on our national character forever,” the commission emphasized in its final report after six years of investigation.

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Widespread Sexual and Physical Abuse

The report detailed that sexual abuse was “commonplace,” with abusers grooming and sometimes trafficking survivors. Physical abuse was also “prevalent across all settings,” with some staff using extreme methods to inflict pain, including weapons and electric shocks.

Targeting of Maori and Pacific Islanders

The report highlighted that Maori and Pacific Islander people were specifically targeted due to their ethnicity, often being prevented from engaging with their cultural heritage and practices.

“New Zealanders held the leaders of these institutions in the highest esteem. These leaders had a duty to nurture, protect and help people flourish. They failed in their duty,” the report stated.

Comprehensive Recommendations and Government Response

The commission, after speaking to over 2,300 abuse survivors, made more than 130 recommendations, including legislative changes for accountability and the establishment of a Ministry for Care.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described the report as marking a “dark and sorrowful day” in the country’s history, stressing the importance of acknowledging the “hard truths” to move forward.

Apology and Future Steps

Luxon pledged that the government would address the report’s recommendations and issue an official apology to survivors in November.

“I want to again acknowledge the survivors for their exceptional bravery and for sharing their stories,” Luxon said. “I share your dream for the next generation where every child, young person and adult is loved, safe, and cared for in a manner that supports their growth and development into a thriving contributor to our society.”

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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