Taushetsbestemmelser

Taushetsbestemmelser are statutory provisions that regulate confidentiality and secrecy obligations in Norway. They define what information is considered confidential, who is bound by the duty of secrecy, and under which circumstances information may be disclosed. The provisions are found in a range of acts and regulations that cover public administration, health and social services, education, and related domains.

Who is covered by taushetsbestemmelser varies by sector. Typically, employees and others who handle sensitive information—such as health personnel, social workers, teachers, and civil servants—are subject to a duty to keep certain information confidential. The scope of the obligation often includes patient or client information, administrative data, and other personal data acquired in the course of professional duties.

Disclosures of confidential information may be permitted or required in several situations. Common grounds include consent from the data subject, necessity for providing care or performing official duties, compliance with a legal obligation, and disclosures allowed for safety, public health, or research purposes when appropriate protections are in place. In many cases, disclosures must be narrowly tailored to the purpose and time-limited.

Enforcement and consequences for breaches depend on the relevant statute. Violations can lead to disciplinary measures, civil liability, or criminal sanctions, depending on the seriousness and context of the breach. Taushetsbestemmelser operate alongside general privacy and data protection rules (such as GDPR and national supplementary legislation) and are interpreted by supervisory authorities and the courts to balance confidentiality with other public interests.