Our Partners

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The our missing children's program was not complete until 1996, when the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Consular Operations became a partner. They complement and enhance the program on issues concerning international child abductions.

The Consular Affairs Bureau provides information, advice and guidance to Canadian missions in other countries on all issues associated with international child abductions. Where appropriate, the Consular Affairs Bureau co-ordinates efforts with other organizations and agencies for the successful resolution of specific cases. They liaise with foreign governments and foreign organizations in dealing with international child abduction cases.

When a Canadian child is abducted to another country, the Consular Affairs Bureau contact foreign diplomatic missions in Canada to establish what travel documentation may have been used and provides information to the parents on the country where the child has been abducted, such as legal system, family laws and list of attorneys who may act on the parent's behalf in the return of the child. They provide advice and guidance to parents wishing to travel to the country where the child has been abducted and ensure that the Canadian embassy or consulate is available to assist them. They also provide a point of contact and information, monitor judicial and administrative proceedings overseas and provide information on developments.

They also encourage and promote the adherence of other countries to the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. Where it is evident that a country is unable to adhere to the Hague Convention, they develop and promote the use of other mechanisms, such as bilateral agreements, that would assist in the resolution of child abduction cases. In cases where the Hague Convention does not apply, they attempt to locate and visit the child and report on their welfare.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade provides training, advice and guidance to national or international agencies on issues of international child abductions. They have produced a manual called "International Child Abductions - A Manual for Parents" which has prevention information; what to do if you child has been abducted; information on the Hague Convention and what assistance they can offer. This publication is invaluable for a parent or legal guardian whose child has been illegally removed from Canada.

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Website.