Frivillighet Norge reports high interest in volunteering despite recruitment gaps

According to the 2026 Volunteerism Barometer from Frivillighet Norge, 63 percent of the Norwegian population has performed voluntary work within the last year. While volunteerism remains a strong foundation for Norwegian society, contributing to culture, sports, and social inclusion, there is significant untapped potential.

Research shows that 41 percent of those not currently volunteering express a desire to contribute. However, only 9 percent of this group reported being approached for recruitment. The data suggests that recruitment is currently heavily reliant on existing personal networks, which can exclude individuals outside those circles.

Stian Slotterøy Johnsen, Secretary General of Frivillighet Norge, noted that the challenge is not a lack of willing participants but rather the methods used to reach them. The study found that being directly asked significantly impacts motivation: 52 percent of those approached expressed interest, compared to 40 percent of those who were not approached. Johnsen emphasized the need to build bridges to new groups to ensure more people find ways to participate.