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About Us

UAI serves as a collective voice for individuals and groups dedicated to addressing the injustices stemming from intercountry adoptions.

Our mission is twofold: advocating for the abolition of intercountry adoptions and ensuring the proper application of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) over the Hague Convention (HAC). Furthermore, we strive to secure redress for victims whose human rights have been violated.

Our efforts have yielded tangible results. The Netherlands has launched an investigation into past adoption practices, with the Committee Investigating Intercountry Adoptions recommending a halt to intercountry adoptions in 2021.

Denmark has similarly suspended adoptions following the release of the documentary "The Great Adoption Theft." Several other countries, including Switzerland, Belgium, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Korea, and France, have conducted investigations revealing the illegality of many adoptions.

In April 2024, the Dutch House of Representatives urged the cessation of intercountry adoptions and called for increased support for adult adoptees.

Our History: A Journey of Advocacy and Change. 

A short History of UAI

Explore our journey and discover how UAI has evolved through the years, making significant strides towards a more just and equitable world for adoptees and first families.

Our history is a testament to the tireless efforts of our supporters, volunteers, and partners. Without the dedication and passion of countless individuals, our achievements would not have been possible.

From grassroots activists to legal experts, from generous donors to determined advocates, each person involved has played a crucial role in our mission

  • Official foundation

    Founders Sonja van den Berg, Munira Blom and Hilbrand Westra

  • Prevoius Organization Executive board

    Executive board Chamilla Seppenwoolde (chairman) Ruchama Bloemendaal (secretary) Jasper Willemsen (treasurer) General team Sharon ter Wee (politics, communication, PR) Yanien Veenendaal (secretariat) Julikah Cornelisse (secretariat & events) Mathanja Blok (PR, social media) Martijn Boerkamp (helpdesk) Vacant (ICT)

  • Previous Advisory board

    Arun Dohle (International Relations) Marcia Engel (Staff & Management) Kana Verheul (Organization, Communication & PR) Ana Maria van Keulen (Social Agogic) Support Nathalia Ruth (handling DNA Project) Dewi Deijl – OJAU (Legal advice) Johan Veenendaal (webmaster) Other Staff Volunteers 5-10 of which 4 are continuously active
    Collaborative Partnership 21 national and international adoptee advocacy organizations

  • Reports

    report was based on ACT work not UAI

  • Previous Advisory Board Member

    HW left org

  • Previous Advisory Board Member

    Chamila left

  • Joustra Report

    Joustra report came; that this investigation was triggered was a joint work of UAI; Plan Angel; Shapla; Mijn Roots and ACT

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Present Day UAI Board Members

Arun Dohle

Board Member 1973

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Martin Joseph Boerkamp

Board Member 1980

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Aparna Rajesh Darwatkar

Board Member 1980

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