The Hague Convention, considered the "gold standard" for adoption, will take effect in the United States this year. All total, sixty-nine countries, including the United States, have agreed to the Hague Convention.

"It requires training for prospective parents, insurance for and forthrightness from adoption agencies, and proof that children are truly eligible to be adopted."

The hope is that setting these standards will reduce child trafficking and illegal adoptions, making the process safe for both parents and children. Read more at JournalStar.com.