Ipsos conducted a survey on the level of trust in the Ministry of Children and Equal Treatment (Barnevernet) among immigrants. The results were published on April 12. They show that the Polish community abroad will be the largest group of foreigners and show the lowest level of trust in this institution. The situation is slightly better among other immigrant groups.
A study with a broader spectrum
Although the intention of the Ministry of Children and Equal Treatment was to measure the level trust to this institution among immigrants, other statistical data on national minorities in Norway were also obtained. The questionnaire had to fill in sections related to the current national situation, which allowed to determine the unemployment rate among specific groups. Additionally, answers could be given in the native language or Norwegian, which indicated the level of knowledge and ability to use the latter.
Poles the least trusting
The results of the study clearly indicate - only 28 percent of Poles declared that they trust Barnevernet. The situation is slightly better in the case of Somalis, but also among them, only 30 percent of people declared confidence in this institution. Many more Iraqis and Pakistanis declared confidence - 40 percent of people said they trust the institution. In turn, over half of the Vietnamese have a positive opinion of Barnevernet. However, she enjoys the best opinion among Bosnians - as many as 68 percent of this minority's representatives declare that they trust the Ministry of Children and Equal Treatment.
Reasons for low confidence
The persons conducting the research also looked for an answer to the question why Barnevernet does not enjoy a high level of trust among some minorities. In the case of Poles, one of the reasons may be the fact that they have been staying in Norway for a relatively short time as immigrants. It is estimated that the Polish community began to form in the Kingdom of Poland only about 7,5 years ago. For comparison, the Vietnamese have been there for 25 years.
Poor language skills
The short stay is also related to poor knowledge of the Norwegian language. This is indicated by the fact that 70 percent Poles preferred to complete the survey in their native language, and 8 out of 10 indicated problems with learning Norwegian. Poor knowledge of it may result in low awareness of Poles regarding the competences and principles of Barnevernet's activities. As Internet users point out, there are many urban legends about the unjustified removal of children by this institution. It is worth mentioning, however, that they have little to do with the truth. Poles' distrust may also result from the fact that the concept of functioning of the Ministry of Children and Equal Treatment is completely new to them.
Help - Barnevernet's main intention
Barnevernet's representatives are aware of the controversy and myths that have arisen around this institution. Its employees, however, declare that they always want to help during their interventions. Breaking up families is not their intention, although it is commonly claimed to be something completely different. For this reason, the "Ethnic Barnevernet" initiative was established. Its aim is to warm the relationship between the immigrant society and the institution.
