US and Russia agree to monitor adoptions
The US and Russian governments have reached an agreement to monitor the adoption and subsequent welfare of Russian children adopted by US families.There had previously been concern in Russia about the welfare of adopted children in the US. This had caused tensions between the two countries and led to adoptions from Russia to the US slowing considerably.
Under the new accord the US State Department will work closely with Russia's Ministry of Education to compile periodic reports on the living conditions and development, (both psychological and physical) of adopted Russian children, with the aim of addressing any serious concerns.
Russian boy
One such case that raised serious concerns was that of a seven year old Russian boy who was returned to Russia alone last year by his adoptive mother who lived in Tennessee. His adoptive mother claimed that he had psychological issues and that she could not cope with them.
Home visits & reports
Under the accord US families will be visited by a social worker four times in the first three years after adopting a Russian child. A report will be produced afterwards and sent to the Russian authorities. Furthermore the child will continue to be monitored until they are 18.
Also, additional reports will be made if the child suffers any abuse or neglect, or where the adoption is ended or the child is subsequently adopted by another US family.
Hague Convention
The accord also seeks to prevent any adoptions facilitated by third-party organisations that seek to streamline or short-circuit the process. Any US adoption agencies seeking to assist with the adoption of Russian children must comply with both the accord and the 1993 Hague Convention on inter-country adoptions.
50,000 adoptions
Over the past 20 years more than 50,000 Russian children have been adopted by US families - more than any other country.
Read more at: online.wsj.com