International and regional instruments
This image gives an overview of the instruments which existed on a global level prior to the 2007 Hague Convention and the 2007 Hague Protocol.
The United Nations Convention on the Recovery Abroad of Maintenance, New York, 20 June 1956 (hereinafter 1956 UN Convention) has been in force since 25 May 1957 and there are currently 65 State Parties.
The Hague Convention of 24 October 1956 on the law applicable to maintenance obligations towards children (hereinafter: 1956 Hague Convention) has been in force since 1 January 1962 and there are currently 14 State Parties.
The Hague Convention of 15 April 1958 concerning the recognition and enforcement of decisions relating to maintenance obligations towards children (hereinafter: 1958 Hague Convention) has been in force since 1 January 1962 and there are currently 20 State Parties.
The Hague Convention of 2 October 1973 on the Recognition and Enforcement of Decisions Relating to Maintenance Obligations (hereinafter: 1973 Hague Convention) has been in force since 1 August 1976 and there are currently 24 State Parties.
The Hague Convention of 2 October 1973 on the Recognition and Enforcement of Decisions Relating to Maintenance Obligations (hereinafter: 1973 Hague Applicable Law Convention) has been in force since 1 October 1977 and there are currently 15 State Parties.
(Status: April 2012)