The protection of American children abducted across international borders and their reunification with parents remains a foremost priority. When foreign government officials, judges, judicial administrators, law enforcement personnel, or other actors deliberately impede the prompt resolution of these cases, they extend family separations and prevent the return of children to the United States.
The Department of State announced a new policy restricting visa issuance for individuals responsible for, or complicit in, obstructing the timely resolution of international parental child abduction cases, including their immediate family members. This measure provides the Department with an additional accountability mechanism to compel non-compliant nations to fulfill their obligations. The restrictions apply to those who intentionally fail to implement or adhere to laws, policies, or court orders necessary to resolve these cases and return children to their country of habitual residence.
The Department continues proactive efforts to prevent abductions and facilitate the swift, safe return of abducted children. This policy supplements existing tools under U.S. law to promote accountability when countries fail to meet their commitments under international law. The administration remains committed to safeguarding the safety and well-being of all American children.
These actions are authorized pursuant to Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
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