Children's Ombudsman, authority

What does a Child Ombudsman within a government agency do – tasks and work environment

A Child Ombudsman within a government agency works to safeguard the rights of children and young people according to Swedish law and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Tasks include investigating and reporting on children's conditions, initiating actions with authorities and decision-makers, and advocating for children's rights. Collaboration with other agencies, interest organizations, and sometimes direct contact with children and youth is common. The work is strategic and involves influencing legislation, policies, and public debate. The work environment is mainly office-based, often in central government premises, characterized by a fast pace, many meetings, and demands for integrity and analytical skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Child Ombudsman within a government agency has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 102,400 SEK per month, increasing to 109 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 115 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 12.5% during the period. The salary increase can largely be explained by increased focus on children's rights in society, higher demands on formal education and experience, and the increased complexity of tasks. Market demand for leadership in government agencies and the need for specialized legal competence have also positively influenced salary development.

Child Ombudsman, government agency salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 115 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 94,800 SEK/month (men), 108,400 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 175,300 SEK/month (men), 166,900 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 693 SEK/hour (average, hourly worker)
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do (men 115 800 SEK, women 114 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on variations depending on location and sector exists, with municipal sector often having somewhat higher salaries than the government sector.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Child Ombudsman within a government agency, a higher academic degree is usually required, most often in law, social sciences, or behavioral sciences. The role demands high levels of leadership and specialized knowledge of children's rights, as well as experience in government work. Many also pursue further education in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, public administration, or human rights.

• Formal degree: Law degree or equivalent social science education (at least 4–5 years)
• Certifications/courses: Further training in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, leadership, and public administration
• Internship/trainee: Experience from government work or non-profit sector with a focus on children's rights
• Prerequisites: Documented experience in strategic work and investigative assignments
• Tips for choosing: Engagement in non-profit organizations during studies can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, pension contributions, flexible working hours, and remote work options are often offered. Occupational pensions and various forms of professional development are common, along with insurances and support for further education.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a Child Ombudsman within a government agency is high, as the number of positions is limited and requirements for formal competence and experience are extensive. Challenges include managing complex cases where children's rights are weighed against other societal interests, and driving change within sometimes slow-moving systems. The role requires good communication skills, integrity, and perseverance, especially when facing political and legal challenges. Keeping up-to-date with legislative changes and international conventions is also a central challenge.

Tips for those aspiring to become a Child Ombudsman within a government agency

To succeed as a Child Ombudsman within a government agency, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a strong commitment to children's rights. Building broad competence through higher education in law or social sciences and supplementing with courses on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child provides a solid foundation. Communication skills are crucial, so actively practicing written and oral expression in various contexts is recommended. Experience leading projects or investigations in the public sector is highly valuable, as is demonstrating perseverance in complex processes. Networking within non-profit organizations and attending relevant conferences can increase opportunities to build important contacts. Finally, integrity and the ability to make difficult decisions are highly valued qualities in the profession.

Key facts about Child Ombudsman, government agency

• Education level: Law degree or equivalent (at least 4–5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often centrally located agency
• Vacant positions: 175 positions in the field according to latest statistics
• Gender distribution: Nearly equal salaries, women earn 99% of men's salaries
• Special skills: In-depth understanding of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and strategic influence work

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a Child Ombudsman within a government agency, opportunities include advancing to leadership roles in other authorities, international organizations, or as experts and advisors in children's rights. Many progress to roles such as Director-General or join national and international committees. According to the Public Employment Service, demand for skills in children's rights and strategic governance remains stable, with 175 available positions in the field. Specialization in international law or policy development opens further career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Child Ombudsman, government agency

• What does a Child Ombudsman, government agency earn?
  - The average salary is 115 200 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and sector.
• What education is required?
  - Usually, a law degree or equivalent higher education, often supplemented with specialized courses in children's rights.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 99% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work is office-based with a high tempo and extensive collaboration with other authorities.
• What are the main challenges in the profession?
  - Managing change within slow-moving systems and balancing various societal interests are central challenges.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, the municipal sector tends to have higher salaries than the government sector, with some variation depending on location.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The demand is stable, and the number of available positions remains high.