Frequently asked questions...19 questions listed

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18. (Part 2 of 2) - As you associate or network with other adoptive families, ask what experience they have had (e.g., the word gets around - both good and bad). The agencies listed as participating in our Symposium are familiar with military overseas members and families. However, participation in our Symposium does NOT imply any preferred recommendation for these agencies. You must do your own research and then choose which agency will work best for your particular circumstances. Please check this U.S. Government link: http://childwelfare.gov/pubs/reslist/rl_dsp.cfm?Rs_id=2&rate_chno=CD -41596.

19. Question: What is the Hague Convention and how does it affect the adoption process?

Answer: The Hague Convention strives to provide internationally agreed-upon rules and procedures for adoptions between countries (e.g., protecting all parties involved). Further, it is to ensure adoption is in the best interest of a child and to prevent abduction, sale of , or illegal trafficking of children. The Hague Convention also establishes a Central Authority in each country for information and points of contact for prospective parents to receive reliable and accurate information. If a country does not comply with the Hague Convention, then adoption placements with American families will NOT be possible. For additional information about the Hague Convention, please see this U.S. Government link: http://travel.state.gov/family/adoption/convention/conve ntion_462.html.