Advice on Children and Holidays: What to Do?

Questioner

My ex is now on holiday abroad with the children without asking permission (I do have their residence details). Is this allowed? When picking up the children, I was told in their presence that I could call them once a week. When they arrived there, my father told me that I was not allowed to call or text because of the costs for him (roaming), but that I could send an email. However, he is currently unreachable and does not respond to anything. The question is whether it will be read. Father now consciously cuts off all contact. Which means that for 3 weeks there is no contact possible with children, not by phone, text message or email. And children not with me. Is this allowed/possible? We have joint parental authority and have clear agreements that both parents must be reachable. They are now also unreachable for special requests/emergencies.

Lawyer

This is absolutely not allowed when on holiday outside the EU, so I don't understand why customs didn't stop them. Due to international child abduction, the other parent (you) must provide a signed letter stating that they agree to the holiday. In this case you can either wait or contact the justice department. They can find out where your ex and the children are and alert the authorities in that country. If the father is on holiday within the EU, different rules apply. Such as the free movement of people. If this is the case, then there were probably no checks at land borders. In this case, you can wait. If you are still worried and think about kidnapping, you could consult the justice department. I hope I have informed you sufficiently. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.