For children, divorce can be life-changing. While some parents manage the situation in unison, others can end up fighting repeatedly about raising methods and education, which can affect the precious emotional balance of their offspring.
ADR deputy Jean Colombera stressed that while there is no ''miracle solution'' he is worried about the consequences of a difficult divorce. In a parliamentary question he asked Family Minister Marie Josée Jacobs what the government intends to do in order to protect children's well-being.
The law currently does not specifically require parents to act in the interest of their children. While nobody can force two adults to stay married, it is up to the parents to manage the situation while putting their children first.
There are public family services that can offer help for those who ask for it. In the case of serious parental discord, mediation centres could offer important advice for conflict management. Marie-Josée Jacobs said that organisations like Families First or FARE are there to offer their support to families in crisis.
''There are many aides which parents can benefit from, which are voluntary at the request of parents or families and as such it is presupposed that the parents really want to manage their conflicts in the interest of their children'', the minister said. Apart from judicial interventions, there are currently no legal rulse to force parents to help in the emotional well-being and education of their children.