Date: Monday 16 June 2025
Time: 08:00 UTC 

“It Takes a Village”

Extended family members, such as grandparents, relatives, or wider community and cultural groups, have long played a crucial role in raising children. However, the legal recognition of these caregivers varies significantly across different countries and cultural contexts.

In some jurisdictions, there are established legal frameworks that automatically recognize the rights of extended family members and community in matters of custody, contact, and adoption. In others, the legal pathways to such recognition can be more complex and challenging.

During this AP Hour, we will explore the legislative recognition and legal pathways available to extended family members in New Zealand, Australia, Jamaica, and India. We will discuss how these countries address issues related to custody, guardianship, contact/access, and adoption, and the extent to which they provide legal recognition and support for extended family caregivers.

Moderator: Inger Blackford

Speakers to include: Lavanya Fischer (India) and Sherry Ann McGregor (Jamaica) 

Registration to open soon.