In a solemn session at Parliament, New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon issued an unreserved apology to survivors of extensive abuse, neglect, and mistreatment in state and church-run care facilities, which spanned decades. Addressing both lawmakers and an audience that included survivors, Luxon expressed deep regret, acknowledging the “horrific” experiences endured by those affected, particularly among Indigenous communities.
“It was heartbreaking, and it was wrong,” Luxon stated, affirming that such treatment should never have occurred. His apology follows a comprehensive six-year investigation, which concluded in July, revealing the severe and widespread nature of abuse inflicted on approximately 200,000 individuals in care over the past 70 years.
According to the inquiry’s findings, nearly 650,000 children and vulnerable adults passed through state, foster, and church care between 1950 and 2019. Around one-third of them suffered various forms of abuse—physical, sexual, verbal, or psychological—with many others experiencing severe neglect and exploitation. The report emphasized the disproportionate impact on Māori, New Zealand’s Indigenous population, labeling the findings a “national disgrace.”
Luxon’s words were intended to convey both accountability and empathy, as he recognized the lasting impact the abuse had on survivors’ lives. “For many of you, it altered the course of your life,” he admitted, committing the government to accepting responsibility. He also confirmed that, for the first time, the government acknowledged that some of the treatment in certain institutions amounted to torture.
However, some survivors and advocates criticized the government’s lack of clarity regarding financial compensation for the victims.
Associated Press (AP), Reuters, BBC News, The Guardian, New Zealand Herald, Al Jazeera
