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

The Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs is seeking a single research study through a cooperative agreement to examine the effects of international parental child abduction on abducted children and left-behind parents in the United States. The project aims to identify short- and long-term impacts across psychological, economic, legal, and social domains, identify gaps in existing support systems, and recommend solutions. The total available funding is up to 1,973,000 dollars for a project period of 36 to 48 months, with an anticipated start date in January 2027. The scope of work includes a planning period of up to 12 months to refine research questions and requires the delivery of at least two published, publicly available products and the establishment of a steering committee with at least three independent members. Applicants must adhere to strict ethical and legal standards, including compliance with the 1980 Hague Convention, ICARA, and ICAPRA. Mandatory requirements include Institutional Review Board certification, Human Research Protection training for key personnel, and a Federalwide Assurance approved by the Office of Human Research Protections. Organizations must maintain active registration in SAM.gov and possess a Unique Entity Identifier. Proposals are evaluated based on the rigor and relevance of the approach, the staffing plan, and organizational capacity, with a preference for applicants providing cost-sharing contributions. The application deadline is September 16, 2026, and must be submitted via Grants.gov or MyGrants, including a proposal narrative limited to 20 pages and detailed budget justifications.