[KevinK]

We survived the 03 Hague Fiasco. I will disagree with posters on one major thing and let's all remember that time heals old wounds...

I think the uncertainty thing is the same with both. But in one, IMHO, important way this time it is not as bad. In 2003 there was no legal system in place. Whether or not our referals would even be recognized was in question. This time, the CNA, PGN, etc all are not saying the cases will be ended. They are all quoted as saying they want to see a speedy resolution (lord knows what they consider speedy of course).

The thing that is different now on the bad side is what had been going on leading into it. Even without this current hysteria cases were taking much longer than in 2003. So while most of us were only a few months into it when the poop hit the fan in 20003, this time PAPs have been waiting far longer before getting stuck in this garbage.

Ever since Feb 07 when that facilitator was busted, things have been taking a downturn in so many ways. What sucks is that many agencies ignored it and kept things like 4-6 month process "averages" on their websites. This misled many of you into believing you were entering a far more stable process than you were.

I remember about a year ago, when it looked like the US was going to be hardcore, that the special agent who arrested that facilitator told me it would get ugly. He estimated, based on indications he was getting from DOS and CIS, that cases would be taking 18-24 months to complete. It was at that point that we, Guatadopt, issued our warning to PAPs because we wanted everyone to know what they were getting into. As things turned out, the US backed off because I think they knew they were getting a new law and our Hague was imminent so they lost their will to investigate, scrutinize, and prosecute. But here we are and it is the Guatemalans doing those things which while seemingly unfair to many PAPs and children, did need to be done by someone. I just wish it could be faster and more transparent.

But hey, if they hold up to the one month thing, we're half way there....

Hang in there folks,

Kevin
Guatadopt.com