Towards an effective child maintenance system: Nordic comparison and regulatory development needs
The child maintenance system is an essential part of safeguarding the economic security of families with children in situations where the parents live separately. The child's maintenance is primarily the responsibility of their parents, and the purpose of the child maintenance system is to support the realisation of this responsibility and to safeguard the child's right to adequate maintenance. Changes in family structures, varying housing arrangements for children and differences in administrative practices have raised questions about the effectiveness, predictability and equality of the system.
The study consists of three substudies looking at the functioning of the child maintenance system in Finland, comparing the Finnish system with solutions found in Sweden, Norway and Denmark, and evaluating alternative models for developing the system. Key research issues include: how the child maintenance system functions in Finland, how it compares with the other Nordic countries and what development options can be applied to the Finnish system. The study is based on legal analysis, comparative policy analysis and qualitative stakeholder data. Qualitative data are collected through roundtable discussions and written expert responses from experts from the control countries.
The study produces data to improve the child maintenance system and to support the reform of legislation and administrative practices. The results support decision-making and the strengthening of the rights of the child in divorce situations.
Researchers
- Ella Sihvonen, Leading Researcher
- Anneli Miettinen
- Johanna Aholainen
Duration of the project
2.6.2026–31.8.2027
Cooperation partners
- University of Turku (utu.fi)(Opens in a new tab)
Fanni Aarniva, Tuulikki Mikkola, Mari Haapanen, Anniina Kaittila, Mia Hakovirta.
