IKAA was invited to attend the Special Commission on the practical operation of the Hague Convention of 29 May 1993 on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption in 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2022 and was the first organization to have represented the perspectives of adult intercountry adoptees at the Special Commission.
The Special Commission covers topics around Illicit Adoptions and Post Adoptions Services. IKAA has focused on surfacing insights and experiences from our global network organizations to provide recommendations for increased and improved Post Adoption Services. IKAA’s most recent Working Document was submitted to the 2022 Special Commission. In particular, IKAA emphasizes the need for openness in adoption and records, effective post-reunion services, and on-going support for adult adoptees from both Sending States and Receiving States. IKAA also notes the continuing expansion of the adult intercountry adoptee community to include the children and grandchildren of adoptees. IKAA has learned the great importance of providing global networking opportunities for adoptees and that Post Adoption Services should not be limited to counseling or biological
family searches.