Practical & Legal
Hague Conventions
Also known as: Hague Conference, HCCH Conventions
Quick answer
HCCH — conventions and instruments · HCCH — 1980 Child Abduction Convention text · HCCH — 1993 Adoption Convention outline · checked 9 Nov 2026
Each Hague Convention is a separate treaty with its own scope, parties and conditions. Check the HCCH status table for the particular instrument rather than assuming that membership of the organisation makes every convention applicable.
The 1961 Apostille Convention concerns public-document authentication. The 1980 Child Abduction Convention provides a process for the prompt return of children wrongfully removed or retained across borders; a return decision does not decide custody. Its six-week provision allows reasons for delay to be requested if no decision has been reached, rather than guaranteeing return within that period.
The 1993 Adoption Convention establishes safeguards and cooperation for intercountry adoption.
Sources
- HCCH — conventions and instruments · checked 9 Nov 2026
- HCCH — 1980 Child Abduction Convention text · checked 9 Nov 2026
- HCCH — 1993 Adoption Convention outline · checked 9 Nov 2026
Related terms
Apostille
An apostille certifies the origin of a public document for use where the 1961 Hague Apostille Convention applies. It replaces diplomatic or consular legalisation, but does not certify the document's contents or determine its legal effect.
Notarization
Notarization is a formal act performed by an authorised notary, such as witnessing a signature or certifying a document. A notary's powers and the effect of the act depend on the jurisdiction and the document.