New Zealand: A National Disgrace - Over 200,000 Children and Vulnerable Adults Abused in State and Religious Care
A shocking report released by the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care has revealed that approximately 200,000 children, young people, and vulnerable adults were abused in New Zealand's state and religious care institutions between 1950 and 2019. This represents nearly one in three individuals who experienced some form of abuse during this period.
The report detailed a litany of horrific abuses that included rape, sterilization, electric shocks, and other forms of physical and emotional harm. Those from the Indigenous Maori community were especially vulnerable to abuse due to their ethnicity and being prevented from engaging with their cultural heritage and practices.
The report also highlighted the failure of civil and faith leaders to address the issue. Many abusers were moved between institutions, allowing them to continue their harmful behavior, while victims often died before seeing justice.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed his regret over the findings and announced an official apology for November 12. The report made 138 recommendations, including mandatory reporting of suspected abuse and the establishment of a Care Safe Agency responsible for overseeing the industry.
The economic cost of this abuse and neglect is estimated at about $200bn. The report called for better government investment in mental health and disability care to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
This national disgrace serves as a stark reminder of the importance of holding those entrusted with our care accountable for their actions. It is crucial that we learn from this history and work towards creating a society where every child, young person, and adult is loved, safe, and cared for in a manner that supports their growth and development into thriving contributors to our society.
