Hague Convention on International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction is an international agreement designed to protect children from being unlawfully taken or retained across borders by a parent or guardian. It aims to ensure that children are quickly returned to their country of habitual residence when they have been abducted, fostering cooperation between countries in legal matters involving child custody. The convention emphasizes the child's best interests and seeks to maintain their living situation as unchanged as possible, promoting stability and emotional well-being during disputes over custody. It is adopted by many countries worldwide, facilitating international legal processes.