The States signatory to the present Convention, Firmly convinced that the interests of children are of paramount importance in matters relating to their custody, Desiring to protect children internationally from the harmful effects of their wrongful removal or retention and to establish procedures to ensure their prompt return to the State of their habitual residence, as well as to secure protection for rights of access, Have resolved to conclude a Convention to this effect, and have agreed upon the following provisions—

Chapter I : Scope of the Convention (Articles 1-5)

Chapter II : Central Authorities (Articles 6-7)

Chapter III : Return of Children (Articles 8-20)

Chapter IV : Rights of Access (Article 21)

Chapter V : General Provisions (Articles 22-36)

Chapter VI : Final Clauses (Articles 37-45)