Samfunnsformål

Samfunnsformål is a Norwegian term meaning the purpose or objectives of society. It refers to the overarching aims that a society seeks to realize through its institutions, policies, and governance. Common elements include welfare, security, justice, sustainability, economic development, and democratic participation. The concept is used across fields such as political science, public administration, and economics to frame decisions, evaluate proposals, and assess progress.

In practice, samfunnsformål is articulated through political platforms, laws, budgets, and strategic plans. Governments describe the intended outcomes of legislation and public programs, often with measurable targets, such as reducing inequality, ensuring access to health and education, protecting the environment, and maintaining financial stability. In organizational contexts, the term can describe the social mission or public-facing purpose of a company or nonprofit, i.e., the broader impact on society beyond profit.

Discussions about samfunnsformål intersect with debates about values, trade-offs, and the legitimacy of public action. Questions include how to balance efficiency with equity, how to weigh individual rights against collective safety, and how to define and measure success. The term is flexible and varies by political tradition, era, and institution, yet it remains a central reference point for evaluating public policy and social development in Norwegian discourse.