The Potential and Challenges of Transnational Litigation for Feminists Concerned About Domestic Violence Here and Abroad

This article discusses the potential benefits and challenges of using private transnational litigation in the area of domestic violence against women, focusing especially on litigation following the adoption of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. After providing background information on the Hague Convention, the author argues that the Hague Convention assists women who seek custody of their children and even more broadly, reinforces public international norms related to domestic violence. Other benefits and practical challenges are also identified and discussed. The author concludes by arguing for private transnational litigation in the area of domestic violence as the potential benefits overcome the challenges. [Descriptors: Violence Against Women, International]