An extensive investigation in New Zealand has uncovered that over 200,000 children, young people, and vulnerable adults suffered abuse in state and faith-based care over the past 70 years. The findings of the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry highlight a pervasive issue, with nearly one in three children in care from 1950 to 2019 experiencing some form of abuse.
Scope and Impact of the Abuse
The six-year investigation, which involved the testimonies of nearly 3,000 individuals, is New Zealand’s largest and most expensive inquiry to date, costing approximately NZ$170 million ($101 million; £78 million). The report revealed harrowing details of abuse, including rape, electric shocks, and forced labor. Māori and Pacific people, as well as those with disabilities, were disproportionately affected, facing higher levels of physical abuse and ethnic degradation.
Findings and Survivor Testimonies
The commission’s report found that abuse and neglect often began on the first day of care. Children and individuals in foster care experienced the highest levels of sexual abuse among various social welfare settings. More than 2,300 survivors shared their experiences, with many describing long-lasting impacts on their mental and physical health. The report labeled the widespread abuse a “national disgrace,” noting that many survivors either died in care or by suicide following their care.
Government Response and Economic Costs
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon called the revelations a “dark and sorrowful day in New Zealand’s history,” pledging that the government would do better. He announced plans to offer a formal apology on November 12 but indicated it was too early to specify the amount of compensation for victims. The economic costs of the abuse, including increased healthcare costs, homelessness, and crime, are estimated to range from NZ$96 billion ($56.9 billion; £44.16 billion) to NZ$217 billion.
Survivors’ Reactions and March to Parliament
On Wednesday, dozens of care abuse survivors marched to parliament as the inquiry’s findings were released. One survivor, Toni Jarvis, described the report as “historic,” emphasizing that it validated the experiences of many who had previously been dismissed. Dr. Rawiri Waretini-Karena, an academic and inquiry witness, highlighted the “pipeline from state care to prison,” noting that many Māori children in state care ended up in prison.
The Royal Commission’s report acknowledges systemic failures and calls for comprehensive reforms. Dr. Waretini-Karena stressed that while individuals must take responsibility for their actions, the environment’s hidden mechanisms that disadvantage certain groups must be addressed. The inquiry’s findings mark a significant step toward recognizing and rectifying the longstanding injustices faced by vulnerable individuals in New Zealand’s care system.
