Parental abductions are far more common than many realize. Behind each case are families caught in complex conflicts, difficult decisions, and sometimes real risks for the child. At the Missing Children’s Network, our role is to support, prevent, and assist parents while working closely with authorities when a child is taken without permission.
Our Role in Interventions
When a case arises, our first actions include:
- Assessing the risk based on family context, history, and recent behaviours;
- Supporting the left-behind parent, who often experiences a mix of stress, worry, and urgency;
- Coordinating with police forces, both locally and internationally, when the abduction crosses borders;
- Clarifying legal frameworks to ensure decisions respect the law and protect the child.
Relevant Criminal Code Articles
Two articles particularly guide our interventions:
- Article 282 – Abduction by a parent: prohibits a parent from removing a child under 14 from the parent who has custody or the right of supervision.
- Article 283 – Abduction in contravention of a custody order: criminalizes taking or retaining a child against a court order or agreement.
These articles are essential for understanding possible legal recourses and guiding our actions in the first critical hours.
The civil aspect is also an option in cases of parental child abduction when the child has been taken to one of the 82 countries that are signatories to the Hague Convention.
The Government of Québec, through the Québec Central Authority, enforces the Act respecting civil aspects of international and interprovincial child abduction.
This Act implements the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction; an international treaty aimed at protecting children in situations involving unlawful removal or retention by a parent.
Within this framework, the Government of Québec may intervene, under certain conditions, when:
- A child whose habitual residence is in Québec has been removed or is being retained outside Canada, in a State that is party to the Convention;
- Access or visitation rights need to be established or protected for a child residing outside Canada, in a Convention State;
- A child whose habitual residence is in a Convention State has been abducted and is now located in Québec. In such cases, it is recommended to contact the Central Authority of that State for further information.
Prevention Tips for Families in Separation Situations
Even when relationships remain respectful, a separation can create a risky context. Here are the measures we recommend to reduce the possibility of unauthorized departures:
- Document concerns: keep all messages, emails, threats, or unusual behaviours.
- Know and update custody orders: they should be clear, accessible, and understood by both parents.
- Set up a communication plan: define contact schedules, movements, and information to share.
- Share reliable information: addresses, phone numbers, contacts, frequented places.
- Stay alert to warning signs: sudden requests for ID, sale of belongings, unexpected travel plans, changes in habits.
- Consult professional resources quickly: social services, police, lawyers… and our team at the Missing Children’s Network, which can assist in risk assessment and prevention.
These simple measures often help prevent escalation and protect children during vulnerable moments.