Statement of Concern
We, members of the Eritrean Diaspora and concerned global citizens, express our deep concern regarding the prolonged separation of a young child from his mother, Ms. Selamawit Oqubazghi, a Swedish national. The child has been residing outside of Sweden for more than three years, and the circumstances surrounding this situation call for careful review and compassionate attention by the relevant authorities.

Legal and Treaty Framework
We respectfully urge the competent authorities of the Kingdom of Sweden and the United States of America to give this matter due consideration within the framework of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (1980) and the International Child Abduction Remedies Act (ICARA). These legal instruments provide cooperative mechanisms for addressing complex cross-border family matters and ensuring that the best interests of the child remain central to any proceedings.

Human-Rights and Child-Welfare Considerations
This case raises important issues concerning the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly Articles 9 and 11, which affirm a child’s right to maintain personal relations and direct contact with both parents and call upon States to prevent and address the challenges arising from international family separations.

Appeal for Constructive Engagement
We respectfully call for:
1. Prompt and coordinated review by Swedish and U.S. authorities to assess the circumstances and determine appropriate next steps in accordance with international law and the child’s best interests.
2. Constructive dialogue and cooperation among judicial, consular, and child-welfare institutions to ensure transparency, fairness, and adherence to humanitarian principles.
3. Psychosocial and legal support for the affected family to safeguard the emotional and developmental well-being of the child.

Call to Action
We invite individuals, civil society organizations, and institutions to:
• Sign this petition to encourage timely and compassionate review of the case.
• Share this statement to raise awareness about the human impact of unresolved international family separations.
• Urge both governments to uphold their shared commitment to protecting children and supporting family unity.

Every signature represents a voice for empathy, cooperation, and the universal right of every child to grow up in a safe and loving family environment.