The number of families from wealthy countries wanting to adopt children from overseas has grown substantially over the last 30 years.

But, in some overseas countries, the lack of regulation of adoption and adoption agencies is a serious concern.  Plus the potential for financial gain, has spurred the growth of an industry around adoption, where profit, rather than the best interests of child, takes centre stage.  Abuses include the sale and abduction of children, coercion of parents, and bribery. 

Many countries around the world have recognised these dangers, and have adopted the Hague Convention on Inter-Country Adoption.  This international legislation, which is designed to put into action the principles regarding inter-country adoption which are contained in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. 

The principles ensure that adoption is authorised only by competent authorities, that inter-country adoption has safeguards and standards, and that inter-country adoption does not result in improper financial gain for those involved in it. 

These provisions are meant first and foremost to protect children, but also have the positive effect of providing assurance to prospective adoptive parents that their child has not been the subject of illegal and detrimental practices.

Perhaps one day all countries allowing international adoption will support the Hague Convention and the Rights of the Child; ensuring that all overseas adoptions are in the best interest of the child, not in the interests of greedy individuals.

For more information visit www.baby-adoption.co.uk

international adoption

This entry was posted on Friday, October 5th, 2007 at 3:26 pm and is filed under International adoption. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.