When Children Need Protection from Parents: Citizens’ Views of the Bodnariu Case in Romania and Their Determinants
When Children Need Protection from Parents: Citizens’ Views of the Bodnariu Case in Romania and Their Determinants

Summary/Abstract: The article examines the relationship between child protection policies and public attitudes in Romania through the lens of the Bodnariu case in Norway (also known as the Naustdal case). We use data collected through a representative survey of the Romanian adult population to explore citizens' attitudes toward this case. Our analysis reveals several compelling insights. Even five years later, more than half of the respondents vividly recall the Bodnariu case, and a significant majority of them express dissatisfaction with its handling. Notably, religiosity and views on the church-state relationship emerge as robust predictors of public perception of child protection services in Norway and the role of Romanian authorities. Gender, age, and education also exert significant influence. At the same time, those who remember the case tend to exhibit greater support for non-democratic alternatives, including a church-led regime.

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