Effects of International Parental Child Abduction on Abducted Children and Left-Behind Parents

The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor within the Department of State is seeking to fund a single research study through a cooperative agreement to examine the multifaceted impacts of international parental child abduction on abducted children and their left-behind parents in the United States. The study aims to uncover both immediate and lasting effects across psychological, developmental, economic, social, legal, and governmental systems, with the goal of mapping the full scope of harm and disruption caused by these abductions. It will analyze how families navigate child welfare, law enforcement, and legal frameworks, and assess how such events alter long-term outcomes for children and caregivers alike. The research will also identify critical gaps in existing support structures, including access to mental health services, financial aid, legal representation, and community resources tailored to families affected by international parental child abduction. Based on this analysis, the study must produce actionable, evidence-based recommendations to improve policy, program design, and service delivery for affected individuals and communities in the United States. The solicitation, issued under DFOP0018453 and posted on July 14, 2026, has a deadline for responses on September 10, 2026, and is open to entities capable of conducting rigorous, multidisciplinary research with direct relevance to U.S. families and federal service systems.