BEO (Barn- och elevombudet, the Child and School Student Representative) is
part of the Schools Inspectorate and is tasked with representing children and pupils who have
been subjected to degrading treatment at school.
Mandate
BEO investigates reports of degrading treatment and can claim damages from the school
provider if the school has not fulfilled its duty to investigate and take action. BEO handles
hundreds of cases per year and makes decisions that can result in financial compensation for
the affected pupil.
Frequently asked questions
What is BEO?
BEO stands for Barn- och elevombudet (the Child and School Student Representative). It is part of the Schools Inspectorate, tasked with safeguarding children's and pupils' rights in cases of degrading treatment in school.
Can BEO claim damages?
Yes. In some cases BEO can claim damages from the operator (huvudman) on behalf of children or pupils subjected to degrading treatment when the school has not met its obligations.
Is BEO the same as the Equality Ombudsman?
No. BEO deals with degrading treatment under the Education Act. The Equality Ombudsman (Diskrimineringsombudsmannen) deals with discrimination and harassment linked to discrimination grounds.
