Australian prime minister apologizes to abuse victims

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, in an emotional speech before Parliament Monday, formally apologized to victims of child sexual abuse in his country. Hundreds of victims attended the speech, which came after the close of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, the nation’s highest level of inquiry. The four-year investigation heard evidence and accusations from more than 17,000 victims, implicating members of government, church and private institutions, and other public figures.

“Today as a nation we confront our failure to listen, to believe, and to provide justice,” Morrison said. “We say sorry.”

The Australian government announced plans to create a museum and research center to raise awareness, offer help to victims of sexual violence, and provide training on best practices, among other services. It also committed to annual reports for the next five years on progress implementing the commission’s 122 recommendations. It has accepted 104 so far, including a redress payments program. The government is establishing an office of child safety, which will report to the prime minister.