The short answer is: To help reduce the risks of child trafficking and abuse.  The adoption process is now a very complicated process and involves many professionals on all sides of the equation.  

Tragically, child abuse, sex slave trade and trafficking are huge problems in today's world.  Therefore, every effort must to be made to insure the process is completely legit and ethical.  

Most professionals (no matter their field) tend to require payment for their services,  Governmental agencies on both sides of the ocean are also involved to make sure everything done according to national and international law.  

Travel is another expense.  Obviously travel to another country probably costs more than travel within the US.  However, the costs to adopt domestically vs. internationally is almost the same.  

Stay tuned for an detailed list of our adoption expenses.
Thank you for your prayers and support!