Adoption post–disaster situations

Canadians planning to adopt a child in another country should understand that, even under ideal conditions, intercountry adoption can be a very complicated and lengthy procedure. This is especially true following times of civil unrest and in the aftermath of disasters.

Adopting a child from a country faced with serious conflict or an emergency situation presents many challenges that can threaten the well-being of the child. UNICEF’s position on cases of children separated from their parents and communities during war or natural disasters is that such children should not be considered for inter-country adoption, and family tracing should be the priority.

During or following a natural disaster or civil unrest, children are particularly vulnerable to separation from their family, exploitation and the possibility of trafficking. In these extreme cases, children can be abducted or illegally taken from their parents or sold to agencies that handle intercountry adoption for personal financial gain.

Situations involving corruption, political unrest or severe destruction caused by an emergency situation can make children more vulnerable and may result in intercountry adoption placements that do not ensure the best interests of the child.

People considering intercountry adoption from a country where there are corruption concerns or a recent emergency situation should be very cautious. Often Canadian provinces announce specific adoption suspensions following a disaster.  This is to reduce the risk of exploitation and potential abuse of the child’s rights.

For more information on CIC’s role in the adoptions process, see CIC’s role.