Chapter 2 examines the background, history and assumptions which underlie the 1980 Hague Abduction Convention. The chapter considers what the Convention was intended to achieve, as well as its evolution in different jurisdictions. The relationship between the 1996 Hague Convention on Jurisdiction and Measures for the Protection of Children and the 1980 Hague Abduction Convention is also addressed as the two Conventions complement each other. Examining the two Conventions side by side illuminates how Morocco, a Muslim Family Law State, adapted its domestic laws to be more in accordance with the Convention when it comes to the interests of children. The chapter also examines fully the question of whether the 1980 Hague Abduction Convention is suited to being a universal instrument. Even if more Muslim Family Law States become party to the Convention, we show why this will not lead to the Convention functioning as envisaged between, on the one hand, Muslim Family Law States and, on the other hand, European, North American, and Australasian states.