About the NGI

A groundbreaking Sanctuary for Families’ pro bono initiative.

The Narkis Golan International Child Abduction Initiative (the “NGI”) is dedicated to increasing access to justice for survivors of gender-based violence who are involved, or at risk of becoming involved, in a Hague Convention on International Child Abduction (“Hague Convention”) court proceeding in the United States.

Our work makes clear that the Hague Convention is often applied unjustly to survivors of domestic violence, many of whom are primary caretaker mothers just trying to keep themselves and their children safe from abuse. To help support these survivors, the NGI:

  • Provides training, educational resources, technical assistance, referrals, and advice and mentorship to advocates, public interest attorneys, and pro bono attorneys across the United States
  • Conducts client consultations and provides pro se advice and assistance
  • Works with clients to find appropriate attorney referrals and/or secure pro bono representation
  • Strategically files amicus briefs in Hague Convention appellate cases
  • Advocates with governmental agencies to improve the implementation of the Hague Convention

OUR STAFF

Nicole Fidler
Senior Project Director

Lesley Johannsen
Senior Staff Attorney

ADVISORY COUNCIL

The NGI has an Advisory Council comprised of former clients, legal service organization attorneys, private attorneys, Hague academics and researchers, and retired jurists.