New Zealand Prime Minister Offers Historic Apology for State Care Abuse
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon delivered a landmark apology to the victims of abuse in state care, acknowledging the profound pain endured by around 200,000 individuals over decades. In a heartfelt address to Parliament, Luxon recognized the historical negligence of successive governments and specifically addressed atrocities at facilities like the Lake Alice psychiatric hospital. Many victims reported enduring trauma, addiction, and racism, particularly among Indigenous Maori. Luxon’s apology follows an inquiry established in 2018, which produced 233 recommendations aimed at addressing the systemic issues within state care.