Do we have the power to change any part of international adoptions? If so, where would that change be?

Question

This stems from an earlier question I had (I hope I did this link right!):

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Ap6TxdE044bEs6Uif9z81JNq.Bd.;_ylv=3?qid=20080317071641AAuSyoo

Answer 1

Ratifying the Hague Convention would be a start.

BTW, while it is well-meaning that people who adopt internationally should just throw money at the poverty in third world countries, it's not realistic.  Neither is it benefitting the people there.  The West has been trying to throw money at poverty for a long time and it hasn't worked yet.

Answer 2

The problem with this as with everything is that there is individual and systemic ways to help.  I truly believe those adopting internationally are thinking they are helping the child.  The answer that says the individually family should pay the 20K to a family overseas, well that will just never happen.

What we first need to do is start pressuring our governments to provide more aid, and for the G8 to start forgiving the debt and come up with sustainable solutions to third world countries.    

I think until we work on poverty in these countries, there is nothing we can do with international adoption.

Answer 3

Make it easier for legitimate PAPs to get the visa to bring in their new child.

USCIS is just horrible - losing files, delays, bureaucratic game-playing [we had to get out US Rep to intervene].

I do appreciate that the State Dept and USCIS are getting better about warning PAPs of shady practices in some of the foreign countries [Guatemala is a striking example].

I'd also like to see a "bill of rights" for the PAPs - too many shady, unethical, or unprofessional clowns in the international adoption industry taking advantage of well-meaning but gullible PAPs.

Answer 4

Whew........ this one wasn't me.

I do like the idea of one major organization that is divided into separate categories for each country for international adoptions.  That might get rid of shady agencies and hopefully the pap's will be better informed with legitimate information.  I hope it would also drive the cost down.

Here's to hoping aye?  I'm not sure if its feasible but i like the general idea.

Answer 5

(1) Ratifying Hague

(2) finding a country that  is not stealing the babies

(3) finding a reputable adoption agency in the US by doing your homework and ask the right questions of them (have they had lawsuits brought against them?, are they in good standing with the BBB?, etc.)

(4) Ask the right questions of the agency overseas to see if they are providing the First Mom (birthmom) with post adoption services offered here like counseling

Jen

Answer 6

instead of spending $20K+ on a kid, many should try donating that money to a family internationally, so that the child doesn't have to lose his/her culture.

Answer 7

Who is "we"?  See the link below.  

http://travel.state.gov/family/adoption/...