gjengene

Gjengen is a Norwegian noun meaning a group of people who act together, often social or informal in nature. The definite plural form,gjengene, refers to specific groups, i.e., “the gangs.” The term is widely used in everyday speech as well as in media, sociology, and public discourse to describe both non-criminal and criminal cohorts.

In ordinary use, gjengen can denote a circle of friends, colleagues, or a cohesive social group. In criminological or journalistic contexts, it commonly refers to organized or loosely affiliated groups that engage in illegal activity, particularly among youths in urban settings. The exact structure and activity of a gjeng can vary, ranging from peer networks to structured criminal organizations.

In Norway, discussions of gjenger are frequent in news and policy debates about youth violence, drug dealing, extortion, and gang-related crime. Authorities may talk about prevention, policing, and social interventions aimed at at-risk youths or communities where gangs operate. The term does not point to a single national organization; rather, it describes multiple groups that may exist locally in different cities or neighborhoods.

Linguistically, gjengen is the definite plural form of gjeng, a common noun meaning group or band. Related terms include gjengmedlem (gang member) and kriminell gjeng (criminal gang). The concept also appears in culture and media, where depictions of gangs illuminate urban life, social ties, and conflicts within Norwegian society.