New Zealand's Shocking Report: Widespread Abuse Over Decades

A final report by New Zealand's Royal Commission of Inquiry reveals that around 200,000 children were abused in state and faith-based institutions between 1950 and 2019. The findings have elicited reactions from various leaders and institutions, emphasizing the need for accountability and systemic changes to prevent future abuse.

A final report by New Zealand's Royal Commission of Inquiry has uncovered a grim reality: approximately 200,000 children were abused in state and faith-based institutions between 1950 and 2019. The findings, which have sparked national outrage, point to systemic failures and the need for urgent reforms.

In response, the Catholic bishops and congregational leaders in Aotearoa New Zealand stated they would carefully review the Inquiry's findings and ensure meaningful actions follow. 'As we have done throughout the length of the Inquiry, we will ensure that action follows our review of the findings,' they pledged.

Chair of the Abuse in Care Royal Commission, Coral Shaw, described the report as exposing a 'national disgrace' that persists today. Commissioner Paul Gibson emphasized that the abuse was pervasive and systemic, calling for immediate measures to stop it. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged the state's failure to protect its most vulnerable, calling this a 'dark and sorrowful day in New Zealand's history.'