Barnevernet

Barnevernet is the Norwegian child welfare service, a municipal authority responsible for safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and for providing support to families in need. It operates under the Barne- og familiestyrende system and within the legal framework of the Barnevernloven (the Child Welfare Act). Its core mission is to identify risk to children, carry out assessments, offer services to support families in their homes, and, when necessary, provide alternative care arrangements such as foster care or residential facilities. The local barnevernet units are guided and supervised nationally by the Directorate for Children, Youth and Family Affairs (Bufdir) and are part of Norway’s social services system.

Procedures typically begin with a referral from schools, healthcare providers, police, relatives, or others concerned about a child’s safety or well-being. The barnevernet conducts investigations and, if concerns are substantiated, may offer in-home support, counseling, parental training, or material assistance. If a child’s safety cannot be ensured at home, the barnevernet can arrange protective measures that may involve placement outside the home in foster care or, in more serious cases, residential care. The most intrusive measures usually require a formal decision by the appropriate authorities and, in many cases, court involvement.

Rights and oversight: Parents and children have rights to participate in decisions, receive information, and challenge decisions through administrative channels or the courts. Central and regional authorities monitor, guide, and supervise local barnevernet units, with Bufdir issuing guidelines and promoting national standards.

Controversies and reforms: Barnevernet has been the subject of public debate and criticism, including concerns about transparency, handling of cases involving ethnic minority families, and balancing family preservation with child protection. Reforms have aimed to enhance early intervention, family-centered practice, and safeguards while maintaining child safety.