A Labour member’s Bill to ban the harmful practices of virginity testing and hymenoplasty has passed its first reading with cross-party support, bringing New Zealand one step closer to ending them.

“Virginity testing is invasive, degrading and has no medical or scientific basis. It is a harmful violation of human rights that can cause trauma and physical abuse,” Labour MP Priyanca Radhakrishnan said.

“This law change will be long overdue, and I’m proud that New Zealand is taking a stand to protect the rights, dignity and safety of women and girls.

“Women and girls should never be subjected to these practices, pressured into them, or made to feel that their worth depends on their virginity.

“Having worked to prevent family violence before entering Parliament, I’ve supported many women survivors of abuse. Too often their stories remain hidden. 

“This Bill is for the women and girls who have been subjected to these practices, and for those who have supported them or spoken up for their rights. We see you, we hear you, and we will act to protect others from this harm.

“I’m pleased this Bill has received cross-party support. It shows what Parliament can achieve when we come together to tackle harmful practices and protect people from abuse,” Priyanca Radhakrishnan said.