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EO 12648Executive OrderReagan · R

Executive Order 12648

Relating to the Implementation of the Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction

This executive order designates the Department of State as the U.S. Central Authority to implement the Hague Convention on international child abduction, which took effect for the United States on July 1, 1988. It authorizes the Secretary of State to carry out the Convention's required functions, including facilitating the return of abducted children across international borders.

53 FR 30637
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Impact dates

  1. Department of State designated as Central Authority; authorization takes effect

Key directives

  • Designate Department of State as Central Authority for Hague Convention on Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction
  • Authorize Secretary of State to prescribe regulations and perform all lawful acts necessary to execute Central Authority functions

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Department of State designated as Central Authority effective upon signing
  • Secretary of State authorized to prescribe regulations and execute functions

Near term (90d)

  • Implementation of Central Authority functions for cases arising after July 1, 1988 Convention entry into force

Long term

  • Ongoing U.S. compliance with Hague Convention obligations
  • Established institutional framework for international child abduction cases

Risks & tensions

  • No specific operational deadlines or performance metrics established in text—implementation pace depends on Secretary's discretion
  • Potential resource and diplomatic tensions in coordinating with foreign Central Authorities; text does not specify funding or staffing
  • Vague phrase 'timely and efficient manner' creates uncertainty about enforcement standards
Executive Order 12648: Relating to the Implementation of the Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction · Executive Orders