Effects of Institutional Care
Submitted by Romanian-Reporter on Thu, 2008-05-08 17:06.
The Relationship between Institutional Care and the International Adoption of Children in Europe.
Author: Shihning Chou and Kevin Browne Date: Friday, March 07, 2008
The study explored the link between institutional care for young children and international adoption, using a survey of 33 European countries. Official figures were available from 25 countries on the proportions of national versus international adoption within their own countries, together with the number of children under three in institutional care.
Results indicate an association between international adoption (both incoming and outgoing) and a high number of young children in institutional care.
The evidence suggests that, rather than reduce the number of children in institutions, international adoption may contribute to the continuation of this harmful practice.
A child rights-based approach to providing alternative care for children separated from their parents is proposed. This study was a preliminary attempt to explore the link between international adoption and institutional care for young children.
The evidence does not support the notion that international adoption reduces institutional care. On the contrary, survey data suggest that it may contribute to the continuation of institutional care and the resulting harm to children.
International adoption should be considered only when it is in the best interests of the child as outlined in the United Nations Commission on the Rights of Children. It must be ensured that the child concerned ‘enjoys safeguards and standards equivalent existing in the case of national adoption’ (UNCRC Article 21c), taking ‘all appropriate measures to ensure that in intercountry adoption the placement does not result in improper financial gains for those involved in it’ (UNCRC Article 21d).
There is a pressing need to reform international adoption services so that they cease to operate under a market mechanism and uphold child rights and the interests of children. In the meantime, the study recognizes the importance and necessity of investigating this area objectively and taking an evidence-based approach to practice.
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Common Cents
Thanks for this report.
Can anyone tell me why anyone would think orphanages would NOT be anything more than the housing supply-source for private adoption drives? The term "orphan" provides the perfect cover for false-family placement, but God-Forbid those facts ever get followed, verified and corrected before a formal out-of-family adoption takes place. This makes me ask: do Family Preservation initiatives take place within orphanages, or is that simply seen as being too costly an effort to attempt with real legitimate concern?
I just can't help but think, once one lie is told, it only grows and becomes a system of lies, cheats and frauds.... all because money and relief can be found, in a sordid and twisted sort of way! How can any safe child-placement take place if money is the ultimate motive?
This is where the international adoption industry has brought so many uncounted parents and their children: Insititutions.
I'm still waiting to see reports on the true long-term benefits international adoption brings any family-friendly society. Thankfully I'm smart enough now to wait without holding my breath!