I have very mixed emotions about this... It bothers me what message this sends to people who are not in the adoption world.... Madonna's adoption journey reads more like a shopping trip (although obviously all I have read is in the tabloids).
Malawi is not a recognised IA country - Shane and I have spent a bit of time in Malawi - and were touched by the people and the culture. We spent time with village chiefs, went to the schools and even took a look around the maternity ward. The poverty in this county was overwhelming and on return to Australia we sponsored a child from Malawi, and now have another sponsored shild from Malawi. I expect we would have seriously considered Malawi for our adoption based on the emotional connection we have. But this is a country, for whatever reasons, that DOES NOT SIGN UP FOR IA.
I am glad this child got a family and opportunities in life beyond what he would ever have in Malawi, and that Madonna may pour money into the community - but how can the country's rules on nonresident adoptions be bypassed so simply - and seemingly quickly? I suppose money can buy anything.
I hope however, that this does perhaps lead the way for more African countries to consider IA. I believe ASIAC and DoCs are working toward approaching other countries - including South Africa to sign onto IA.
It is a bit of a smack in the face for us regular people wanting to be parents through IA - we are already 18 months into the process with at least another 12 months until we bring our daughter home.
Sorry this seems a bit all over the place - ramblings of a paper pregnant woman - who is now 18 months pregnant and who has a real heart for Malawi!