Unveiling Trauma: New Zealand's Historic Inquiry into Abuse in State and Church Care

Moeapulu Frances Tagaloa was abused at a young age by a Catholic brother in New Zealand. This abuse was part of a broader issue examined in a comprehensive inquiry into mistreatment in state and church care between 1950 and 2019. The report made 138 recommendations for systemic change and public apologies.

Moeapulu Frances Tagaloa, a survivor of childhood abuse in New Zealand, recounted her harrowing experience with a Catholic brother during the 1970s at an inquiry into state and church care abuse. 'It was very traumatic experiencing that trauma,' said Tagaloa, who testified alongside over 2,300 survivors.

The inquiry, one of the most extensive in New Zealand's history, documented abuse and torture including rape and electric shocks, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the Indigenous Maori community and individuals with disabilities. The 3,000-page report includes 138 recommendations, urging public apologies from the government and church heads.

'I think if this government really cares, they'll implement all recommendations,' Tagaloa emphasized. New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged the survivors' courage and pledged that their pain would be recognized and addressed.

(With inputs from agencies.)