The Convention of 25 October 1980 on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (HCCH 1980 Child Abduction Convention) is a multilateral treaty, which seeks to protect children from the harmful effects of wrongful removal and retention across international boundaries by providing a procedure to bring about their prompt return and ensuring the protection of rights of access. The "Child Abduction Section" provides information about the operation of the Convention and the work of the Hague Conference in monitoring its implementation and promoting international co-operation in the area of child abduction.
Please note that the Permanent Bureau of the HCCH has no mandate to assist in individual abduction cases. If you have a question relating to international child abduction and your country is a Party to the HCCH 1980 Child Abduction Convention, please contact the Central Authority designated by your country.