Ocean County Leader

A Republican congressman has personally delivered a letter to Japan’s prime minister urging action to address the issue of American children being abducted and held in Japan by parents without consent. In the letter, GOP Rep. Chris Smith emphasized the importance of reuniting these families, stating, "For the sake of the children who are suffering, and for the sake of U.S. and Japanese relations, I seek your public commitment to reunite these families."

Smith highlighted the ongoing human rights crisis of child abduction to Japan, pointing out the lack of notable returns of abducted children despite efforts like the Sean and David Goldman International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act. He stressed the severe impact of abduction on children, stating, "child abduction is a form of child abuse," and highlighting the mental trauma and risks they face.

The congressman also raised concerns about Japan's legal system not recognizing joint custody, leading to difficulties for parents like Jeffrey Morehouse in accessing their children. Smith called for a collaborative process between the United States and Japan to facilitate family reunification and healing, emphasizing the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing this issue.

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to the concerns, stating that since the Hague Convention entered into force in Japan in 2014, appropriate measures have been taken to address abduction cases covered by the Convention. The statement highlighted cooperation between relevant authorities in Japan and the U.S. to respond to cross-border child abduction cases.

In concluding his letter to Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Smith expressed hope for a positive resolution, stating, "it is my sincere hope that these Japanese American children will become a source of strength between our two countries rather than a reminder of an ongoing injustice and a barrier to a robust United States-Japan relationship."

The issue of child abduction impacting American families in Japan continues to be a pressing concern, with efforts underway to address the challenges faced by affected parents and children.