Bjarki Heiðar Bjarnason, a lawyer, has received numerous calls from former residents of the Bakkakot care home, many of whom are sharing accounts of severe abuse they suffered during their childhood. He notes that while he has formally interviewed twelve individuals, over thirty people have reached out to him, indicating a significant number of potential victims are seeking justice. This surge in communication reflects a growing acknowledgment and willingness to address past abuses in Iceland's care system.

The issue came to wider public attention when the national broadcaster, Ríkisútvarpið, reported on it, aligning with governmental action plans introduced by the Prime Minister to tackle historical abuse. These measures reveal a proactive approach from the government to address the grievances of those who experienced such traumatic events while under state care. The Prime Minister announced a four-part initiative designed specifically for children who faced violence at Bakkakot, suggesting a significant institutional acknowledgment of past failures.

This emerging dialogue around historical mistreatment is crucial, as it could pave the way for legal reforms and other measures to support victims. It indicates a cultural shift in Iceland towards confronting and reconciling with its past, ensuring that a similar legacy of abuse does not continue unchecked. This report not only sheds light on individual stories of trauma but also highlights an essential moment of recognition and potential policy change in the country's child welfare system.