New Zealand Prime Minister Apologizes For Widespread Abuse

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon speaks to supporters at a party event in Auckland, Oct. 14, 2023, following a general election. Luxon said on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, that it was

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand issued a formal and unreserved apology in Parliament on Tuesday for the extensive abuse, torture, and neglect suffered by hundreds of thousands of children and vulnerable adults in care. Luxon described the atrocities as horrific, heartbreaking, and unequivocally wrong, emphasizing that such acts should never have occurred.

An estimated 200,000 individuals in state, foster, and faith-based care endured unimaginable abuse over a span of seven decades, according to a scathing report released in July. The report marked the conclusion of the largest inquiry ever conducted in New Zealand, revealing a national disgrace that affected the lives of many.

Luxon acknowledged the profound impact the abuse had on survivors, recognizing that it altered the course of their lives. He expressed genuine remorse, stating, 'Words do matter, and I say these words with sincerity: I have read your stories, and I believe you.'

Approximately 200,000 individuals suffered abuse in state, foster, and faith-based care.

Luxon issued formal apology in Parliament for abuse in care system.

Report revealed systemic failures and national disgrace in New Zealand's care system.

The inquiry's findings highlighted the systemic failures that plagued the care system, with nearly a third of the 650,000 children and vulnerable adults in state, foster, and church care between 1950 and 2019 experiencing various forms of abuse. The victims, predominantly Maori, New Zealand's Indigenous population, endured physical, sexual, verbal, or psychological abuse, while many others faced exploitation and neglect.

In response to the report, the New Zealand government acknowledged for the first time that the historical treatment of certain children in a state-run hospital amounted to torture. The government pledged to issue an apology to all individuals who suffered abuse in state, foster, and religious care settings since 1950.

Despite the apology, Luxon's government faced criticism from some survivors and advocates for not yet outlining plans for the financial compensation of those who were abused. The government's commitment to addressing the injustices of the past was underscored by the Prime Minister's apology and the recognition of the need for accountability and restitution.