In a historic address to parliament, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand has issued a formal apology to the victims of abuse in care homes, a response to a detailed inquiry that uncovered systemic abuse experienced by 200,000 vulnerable individuals from 1950 to 2019. The report highlighted the bleak realities faced by many, particularly those from Māori and Pacific communities and individuals with disabilities, prompting the government to commit to reforming the care system. Luxon acknowledged the profound impact of these abuses, asserting that "it was horrific, heartbreaking, and wrong," and emphasized the government's responsibility towards the survivors.
New Zealand Government Apologizes for Historic Abuse in Care Homes
New Zealand Government Apologizes for Historic Abuse in Care Homes
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expresses sorrow for the abuse victims in care facilities after a six-year investigation reveals deep-rooted mistreatment and calls for reforms.
The inquiry, described by Luxon as one of the most extensive public inquiries in New Zealand’s history, required six years to examine the testimonies of over 2,300 people who suffered abuse in both state and faith-based institutions. The heart-wrenching report detailed a spectrum of atrocities, including rape, forced sterilizations, and coerced labor, revealing that faith-based organizations often had alarmingly higher incidences of sexual abuse compared to state facilities. In a shocking revelation, it was found that many civil and religious leaders attempted to conceal these abuses by relocating perpetrators rather than holding them accountable.
The apology was attended by some survivors in parliament, while others viewed the proceedings via livestream. However, critics voiced concerns regarding accessibility, noting that the delivery in parliament limited direct communication between Luxon and the broader survivor community. Survivors, like Tupua Urlich, expressed that true healing and justice necessitate not only words but tangible action; many feel deeply disillusioned by the government’s past failures.
As part of the government's commitment to restitution, Luxon announced a review of a financial redress mechanism, although specific details regarding compensation are expected only in the coming year. He affirmed the government’s intention to progress with over a quarter of the inquiry's 100 recommendations and announced a proposed legislative bill aimed at enhancing protections for children in care, which includes banning strip searches and imposing stricter employment checks for caregivers.
In addition to legislative efforts, Luxon declared November 12 of the following year as a National Remembrance Day to honor the victims of this abuse, stating, "It is on all of us to do all we can to ensure that abuse that should never have been accepted, no longer occurs."
The apology was attended by some survivors in parliament, while others viewed the proceedings via livestream. However, critics voiced concerns regarding accessibility, noting that the delivery in parliament limited direct communication between Luxon and the broader survivor community. Survivors, like Tupua Urlich, expressed that true healing and justice necessitate not only words but tangible action; many feel deeply disillusioned by the government’s past failures.
As part of the government's commitment to restitution, Luxon announced a review of a financial redress mechanism, although specific details regarding compensation are expected only in the coming year. He affirmed the government’s intention to progress with over a quarter of the inquiry's 100 recommendations and announced a proposed legislative bill aimed at enhancing protections for children in care, which includes banning strip searches and imposing stricter employment checks for caregivers.
In addition to legislative efforts, Luxon declared November 12 of the following year as a National Remembrance Day to honor the victims of this abuse, stating, "It is on all of us to do all we can to ensure that abuse that should never have been accepted, no longer occurs."
