WASHINGTON — The Department of State has released its 2024 Annual Report on International Child Abduction, revealing a persistent challenge in ensuring the safety and return of abducted American children from overseas.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Department reiterated its commitment to safeguarding U.S. citizens abroad, particularly children who are among the most vulnerable. The report underscores the Department’s leadership role in spearheading efforts to prevent international parental child abduction and facilitate the return of abducted children, with a focus on promoting adherence to the Hague Abduction Convention.
According to the report, the Hague Abduction Convention remains a cornerstone in addressing international parental child abductions, providing a framework for the prompt return of abducted children. However, the Department noted challenges posed by countries that have not ratified the Convention or failed to fulfill their treaty obligations.
Among the key findings of the report, 16 countries were identified as demonstrating a pattern of noncompliance, including Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Bulgaria, Ecuador, Egypt, Honduras, India, Jordan, Montenegro, Peru, Poland, the Republic of Korea, Romania, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates.
The report also highlighted the Department’s efforts in handling abduction cases, revealing that in 2023, 136 cases were resolved with the return of 205 abducted children to the United States. Additionally, 119 cases were resolved through other means. Throughout the year, the Department managed a total of 721 active abduction cases involving 982 children and 69 access cases involving 92 children.
To prevent abductions, the Department emphasized the importance of programs like the Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program (CPIAP). In 2023, over 3,700 children were enrolled in CPIAP, bringing the total enrollment to more than 66,000. The program enables the Department to verify parental consent for passport issuance and collaborate with law enforcement to prevent ongoing abductions.
Furthermore, the Department engaged with foreign governments and officials to promote awareness of international child abduction issues and encourage adherence to the Hague Abduction Convention. These efforts included participation in international conferences and engagement with countries such as The Bahamas, Bulgaria, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Honduras, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Despite progress, challenges persist, particularly in cases involving military families and those unresolved for extended periods. The report noted that in 2023, nine abduction cases affecting military parents and families were addressed, with four cases resolved and five remaining open.
The entire report can be viewed here.
