Adoption possible from six selected countries
Adopting a child will still be possible from the following countries: the Philippines, Hungary, Lesotho, Taiwan, Thailand and South Africa. Cooperation with these countries is intensifying, which benefits the relevant procedures. A decision on the cooperative relationship with Bulgaria and Portugal is expected in the first quarter of 2023, after the Central Authority for International Children’s Issues has investigated the matter further. The adoption relationship with the United States, China, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Peru, Colombia, Burkina Faso and Haiti will be phased out.
This choice was made after the cooperative relationships with countries of origin were assessed based on a number of criteria. Among other factors, things like the necessity and need for intercountry adoption in the country of origin, the methods for seeking suitable care within the country of origin and the security situation were considered. The fact that an adoption relationship is being phased out does not mean that there were any reports or suspicions of abuse. The key principle is that the procedures for those prospective adoptive parents whose cases have already been filed in the country of origin can be continued. The Central Authority will consult with these countries in that regard.
‘Over the recent period, important steps were taken in the field of intercountry adoption. Now that it is clear which countries will still remain an option for intercountry adoption and which will not, we will be organising information sessions and will be resuming family investigations. This marks the end of a period of uncertainty for all involved,’
says Minister for Legal Protection Franc Weerwind.
Domestic relinquishment and adoption
On 1 October, the committee to investigate domestic relinquishment and adoption was installed. The committee, led by Prof. Micha de Winter, will be investigating the history of domestic relinquishment and adoption in the period between 1956 and 1984. This investigation will also consider the role that the government played. The committee expects to complete its investigation before October 2024.