New Zealand's Historic Abuse in State and Faith-Based Institutions: Royal Commission Findings

The Royal Commission of Inquiry in New Zealand released a final report revealing that 200,000 children and vulnerable adults were abused in state and faith-based institutions from 1950 to 2019. The report highlights the extent of abuse and neglect, racial disparities, and provides 138 recommendations including national apologies and establishing a National Care Safety Strategy.

A final report by New Zealand's Royal Commission of Inquiry into historic abuse of children in state and faith-based institutions has revealed troubling statistics, estimating that 200,000 individuals were abused between 1950 and 2019.

The report noted that out of the 655,000 children, young people, and vulnerable adults in care, a disturbingly wide array of abuse and neglect was documented. This included physical, emotional, psychological, medical, educational, spiritual, and cultural neglect.

Moreover, discrimination and racism by authorities and the public contributed to the likelihood of being taken into care and the severity of treatment received. The financial cost of abuse in care was staggering, estimated at NZ$96 billion to NZ$217 billion over nearly seven decades.

The report highlighted that a disproportionate number of Maori entered state care between the 1950s and the 1980s, facing higher levels of abuse. The inquiry, launched in 2018, faced delays due to expanded scope but ultimately provided 138 critical recommendations.

Among these, the report called for public apologies from national and religious leaders, compensation for survivors, the creation of a National Care Safety Strategy, and the establishment of a specialist police unit for investigating abuse cases.

(With inputs from agencies.)