Pedersen and Others v. Norway (2020)

In this case, the ECHR unanimously found that Norway violated the rights of both the parents and the child ("X") by authorizing adoption and severely restricting contact.

1. The "Minimal Contact" Doctrine

The Norwegian courts had granted the parents contact only twice a year for two hours. The ECHR slammed this routine practice, stating that such sparse contact makes it impossible to maintain a meaningful relationship, effectively pre-determining the outcome of adoption.

2. Adoption Not Justified

The Court ruled that the state failed to try "less far-reaching measures" (like long-term foster care with contact) before moving to adoption. Adoption is irreversible and cuts the child off from their roots; therefore, it requires stricter justification than Norway provided.