Romania Halts International Adoptions

Grandparents Only

UPDATE JUNE 2004: The new Romanian law has been signed. International adoptions are now limited to children's grandparents.

In early 2001, the U.S. State Department reported a slow down in adoptions from Romania while reforms were investigated. Then, in light of pressure from the European Union, the country suspended all international adoptions. The U.S. and European Union virtually placed Romania between a rock and a hard place: the U.S. holding out the carrot of NATO membership if adoptions were resumed quickly, and the European Union holding the carrot of membership in that organization only if major reforms were made.

In August 2002, an article from IAVAAN raised serious questions about reports that the ban was on the way to being lifted. Very prophetic, indeed.

Initially Announced October 8, 2001

All adoption procedures, by Romanian and foreign citizens, were suspended for one year. During this time, the Romanian government was to re-assess its laws and practices.

If Your Adoption Was Halted

A support group has been formed for those whose adoptions from Romania have been halted. The group offers support during the waiting period, and hopes to lobby effectively.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Adopt_Romania

It is requested that those who join be involved in current adoptions and/or be willing to actively participate in lobbying efforts.

More Information

Adopting From... (country resources)
International Adoption
Trends in International Adoption through 2003

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