Source: Ministère des Affaires Etrangères de la République Française |

Democratic Republic of Congo - Suspension of international adoptions (24 November 2016)

Whilst taking into account the legitimate expectations of families wishing to adopt, France must, as a matter of priority, ensure the best interests of the children concerned and comply with its international obligations under the Hague Convention

Families who have still not done so can apply for an adoption visa through the French Embassy in Kinshasa, which is at their service

PARIS, France, November 25, 2016/APO/ --

Given the irregularities observed for months regarding adoption files in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), we have decided to suspend international adoptions from the country as of 31 December 2016.

It is a difficult decision but one which, due to inadequate legal and ethical safeguards for adoption in that country, was deemed imperative.

Whilst taking into account the legitimate expectations of families wishing to adopt, France must, as a matter of priority, ensure the best interests of the children concerned and comply with its international obligations under the Hague Convention.

The Congolese authorities and registered adoption agencies have been informed of this decision.

Families who have still not done so can apply for an adoption visa through the French Embassy in Kinshasa, which is at their service.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministère des Affaires Etrangères de la République Française.