In a historic moment, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon formally apologized in Parliament to victims of long-standing abuse in state and faith-based care homes in New Zealand, following a six-year inquiry that revealed grave injustices faced by around 200,000 individuals, predominantly from Māori and Pacific communities.
New Zealand Prime Minister's Historic Apology for Care Home Abuse
New Zealand Prime Minister's Historic Apology for Care Home Abuse
Christopher Luxon addresses systemic abuse in care facilities over decades.
---
New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon delivered a moving apology to the survivors of abuse in care facilities, recognizing the heartbreak endured by many over decades. This landmark statement in Parliament stems from an extensive inquiry which uncovered shocking revelations of abuse involving approximately 200,000 children and vulnerable adults between 1950 and 2019.
The inquiry, described as the most comprehensive in the nation's history, documented a wide array of abuses, including sexual violence and neglect, particularly within faith-based care settings. Luxon’s acknowledgment reflects a significant shift in acknowledging past wrongs, especially towards marginalized groups such as the Māori, Pacific communities, and those with disabilities.
Luxon stated, “This should never have happened,” reflecting on the harrowing impact these experiences have had on victims' lives. His administration has committed to implementing reforms, having already made progress on numerous recommendations from the inquiry, including establishing clearer reporting protocols for suspected abuse.
To commemorate this chapter in history and honor those affected, a National Remembrance Day will be observed on November 12 of next year. The Prime Minister reiterated the collective responsibility in ensuring such abuses are never repeated, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the care system. With the inquiry’s findings, the government hopes to foster a safer environment for all vulnerable populations in New Zealand.
New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon delivered a moving apology to the survivors of abuse in care facilities, recognizing the heartbreak endured by many over decades. This landmark statement in Parliament stems from an extensive inquiry which uncovered shocking revelations of abuse involving approximately 200,000 children and vulnerable adults between 1950 and 2019.
The inquiry, described as the most comprehensive in the nation's history, documented a wide array of abuses, including sexual violence and neglect, particularly within faith-based care settings. Luxon’s acknowledgment reflects a significant shift in acknowledging past wrongs, especially towards marginalized groups such as the Māori, Pacific communities, and those with disabilities.
Luxon stated, “This should never have happened,” reflecting on the harrowing impact these experiences have had on victims' lives. His administration has committed to implementing reforms, having already made progress on numerous recommendations from the inquiry, including establishing clearer reporting protocols for suspected abuse.
To commemorate this chapter in history and honor those affected, a National Remembrance Day will be observed on November 12 of next year. The Prime Minister reiterated the collective responsibility in ensuring such abuses are never repeated, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in the care system. With the inquiry’s findings, the government hopes to foster a safer environment for all vulnerable populations in New Zealand.
