Conclusion

Federal policy and practice pertaining to international parental kidnapping have evolved significantly in the last 20 years in tandem with changes nationwide at the State level. As this report documents, the Federal Government may respond in many different ways when international abductions are threatened or occur. Responses aim to prevent abductions, and if they occur, to facilitate civil child recovery and, as appropriate, the investigation, extradition, and prosecution of abductors.

Even the best efforts will not ensure the return of every parentally abducted child and the satisfactory resolution of any case as to all parties. However, the current U.S. responses can improve, particularly in the areas of prevention, training, and education of parents and all who address these cases; technical and case coordination; and international outreach. All such efforts will benefit victim children and those left behind.

All such efforts have resource implications. Both specific measures and the resources to support them must be available to ensure that the Federal Government is doing its utmost to protect children from the harmful effects of international parental kidnapping.