I am a parent who has experienced the heart-wrenching reality of my child being taken from me by their other parent, despite us having equal custody rights. My ex-partner decided not to return our child to me and used our shared parental rights as a shield against any legal repercussions. The police and social services would not intervene because he has equal parental rights, even though he had previous charges for violent behavior in front of our child.

This is an issue that extends beyond my personal experience. It's a systemic problem that needs immediate attention. Despite the fact that approximately 2 children a month are victims of abduction or attempted abduction in Scotland, and that 12 out of 44 cases between 2013 and 2014 were carried out by a relation of the child, there are no specific laws preventing parents with 50/50 custody from abducting their own children.

This lack of legislation leaves primary caregivers powerless and puts children at risk, especially when one parent has shown signs of violence or neglect. It's time we put rules in place that prevent parents with equal custody rights from using their children as pawns in personal disputes.

We need laws that prioritize the welfare of the child over parental disputes, ensuring they remain with their primary caregiver unless it is proven detrimental to them. This will protect vulnerable children and give peace of mind to countless caregivers who live every day fearing for their child's safety.

If a child is not returned to their primary caregiver by their other parent in the timescale previously agreed on, then this should become child abduction unless there is solid proof that the child in question was at risk of neglect or abuse at their primary home. 

Please sign this petition urging lawmakers to implement legislation preventing parental abduction in cases where parents have equal custody rights. Let us ensure our legal system prioritizes the well-being and safety of our children above all else.