In Reversal, Germany Backs Access in Custody Disputes

In a dramatic turnaround, top German officials are arranging for an American father, Joseph Cooke, to begin a reunification process with his children, who were placed in a German foster home more than seven years ago.

The development in a case that had hijacked talks last month between President Clinton and Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder signified a shift in the German approach toward custody disputes with the U.S. In the past, German officials have said they could not interfere with local officials. But the leader of a German delegation to Washington said Tuesday that federal officials “have made it clear to local authorities that Mr. Cooke has the right of access.”

The delegation also pledged to help parents gain access to children abducted to Germany during custody battles and to train judges on the international treaty that governs such cases.