‘Like the Angel of Death Appearing to Take the Children Away’: The Portrayal of the Norwegian Child Welfare Service Among First-Generation Muslim Parents

Abstract

This study explores the perceptions of Norway's Child Welfare Services (CWS), or barnevernet, among first-generation Muslim migrant parents. It focuses on how personal experiences and community narratives shape attitudes. Using data from semi-structured interviews with 24 first-generation Muslim migrant parents, the findings reveal a stark contrast between firsthand experiences and secondhand accounts. Participants who had direct contact with the CWS typically described interactions as professional and supportive. However, widespread negative stories within social networks portrayed the agency as punitive and culturally insensitive, fueling fear and mistrust. The analysis highlights key factors contributing to these perceptions, including misinformation, cultural misunderstandings and communication barriers. While systemic biases were occasionally noted, most firsthand accounts suggest that negative perceptions are often exaggerated. The study underscores the importance of improving cultural competence among CWS staff, enhancing communication strategies and engaging directly with migrant communities to dispel myths and build trust.