Quebec halts most international adoptions amid human trafficking concerns
The Quebec government has taken a significant step to address human rights and trafficking concerns by suspending most new international adoption applications. This decision comes as the government aims to strengthen the adoption system and ensure that adoptions are free from illegal practices such as abductions, sales, and trafficking of children.
In a news release, Quebec officials stated that the moratorium on new international adoption applications will be in effect while a more robust framework is developed to prevent these harmful practices. The goal is also to reduce adoption failures that result in children entering the child welfare system. This move aligns Quebec with other jurisdictions around the world, such as France, the Netherlands, Denmark, and South Korea, that have either limited or reviewed international adoptions.
Geneviève Poirier, the secretary and director-general of international adoption at Quebec’s Health Ministry, highlighted the province’s commitment to the Hague Convention, which aims to prevent human trafficking and other abuses in the adoption process. Poirier emphasized that during times of crisis, such as civil wars or political instability, international adoptions must cease to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
It has become increasingly clear to Quebec officials, as well as their counterparts worldwide, that adoptions from foreign agencies may not always meet the criteria set forth by the Hague Convention. This raises concerns about whether children have been bought or sold, and if sufficient efforts have been made to locate their parents or extended families. The primary objective of these measures is to protect vulnerable children and ensure their best interests are prioritized.
While some types of international adoptions, such as those involving extended family members, will still be permitted, adoptions through certified agencies will be put on hold. The Canadian government has indicated that all provinces and territories have also suspended adoptions from certain countries, including Georgia, Guatemala, Liberia, Nepal, and Ukraine.
In light of these developments, it is evident that Quebec is taking a proactive stance to address human rights violations and trafficking in the international adoption process. By implementing stricter measures and adhering to international standards, the government is working towards safeguarding the well-being of children and promoting ethical adoption practices.
