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Child Abductions and Custody Issues - FAQ
- How can I prevent a situation that might appear to be a child abduction or custody dispute?
- What is the "Our Missing Children" program?
- What is the "Travel/Reunification" program?
- Where can I find more information about international child abductions and custody issues?
1. How can I prevent a situation that might appear to be a child abduction or custody dispute?
International parental child abductions and custody cases involving Canadian children in foreign countries are on the rise. These situations are very delicate and complex. To avoid a situation that could be interpreted as a child abduction or custody dispute in a foreign country, we advise you to take preventive measures. See our FAQs on Children and Travel for recommendations on travel documentation and precautions for children travelling alone or with one parent or guardian.
Consult our publication entitled International Child Abductions: A Manual for Parents for further information.
2. What is the "Our Missing Children" program?
Our Missing Children is a national program that joins the efforts of four federal government departments and agencies: the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, and Justice Canada. Its objective is to locate and recover missing and abducted children. The program is linked to all Canadian police and related agencies, U.S. police agencies, and most foreign police agencies. The Missing Children Database, a unique and powerful tool in locating and recovering missing children, is an important component of the program.
3. What is the "Travel/Reunification" program?
The Travel/Reunification program assists parents or legal guardians who cannot afford to transport an abducted child back home, once the child has been located.
4. Where can I find more information about international child abductions and custody issues?
Consult our publication entitled International Child Abductions: A Manual for Parents. Information on Canada’s role in the implementation of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction can be found on the Justice Canada website. Additional information on Passports for Children and Travelling with Children is available from Passport Canada.