Date November 7, 2007
Joint Council has continued to advocate for a rational and child centric transition to the Hague Convention in Guatemala.
- includes a strong ‘grandfather’ clause,
- designates April 30 2008 as the effective implementation date of the Convention,
- allocates $5 million Quetzales ($650,000 USD) for the creation of the Central Authority,
- allocates a percentage of the total government budget for child welfare services
- creates a new government entity to act as the Central Authority in
Guatemala, - provides for private non-profit accredited entities to provide services to children,
- allows single potential adoptive parents to apply for adoption,
- and creates a functional process by which children can find a permanent, safe and loving family.
The new legislation is scheduled to be introduced to Congress early next week. In line with our mission of advocating for the right of each child to a permanent family, Joint Council will continue to work with our colleagues in Guatemala towards a positive and child centric implementation of the Convention.