Norway's parliament has initiated public hearings to examine the connections between the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Norwegian diplomats and politicians, a scandal that has implicated members of the nation's elite. The hearings, which began Wednesday, are part of a broader inquiry into the fallout from Epstein's extensive international network.
The US Department of Justice released millions of Epstein-related documents in January, revealing links to global figures including politicians, royalty, and prominent business individuals. Norway, a nation often central to international diplomacy, has faced significant repercussions, leading to parliamentary inquiries and police investigations.
Jonas Andersen Sayed, leader of the hearing at parliament’s Committee on Scrutiny and Constitutional Affairs, stated that the government must account for its actions in restoring trust in the foreign service. He noted that many individuals had demonstrated "very poor judgment" in their associations with Epstein.
The committee has summoned 11 current and former foreign and development ministers, including Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, who served as foreign minister from 2005 to 2012. Stoere has stated he had no relationship with Epstein and believes the issues stem from isolated incidents rather than a systemic problem within the foreign ministry. He indicated that updated rules on conflicts of interest are being implemented.
Boerge Brende, a former foreign minister also scheduled to testify, resigned from his position as president and CEO of the World Economic Forum following revelations of his relationship with Epstein. Brende has stated he was unaware of Epstein's criminal activities prior to their first meeting in 2018.
Former international development minister Erik Solheim expressed support for the probe but cautioned that it should not discourage diplomats from engaging in sensitive discussions, particularly in conflict zones. He emphasized the importance of continuing Norway's "peace diplomacy."
Several other prominent Norwegians with ties to Epstein, including former premier Thorbjoern Jagland, former minister Terje Roed-Larsen, and ex-diplomat Mona Juul, are under police investigation for corruption accusations, though they deny wrongdoing. Roed-Larsen has apologized for his close relationship with Epstein, which included a personal loan, and stepped down as CEO of the International Peace Institute in 2020.
Queen Mette-Marit, wife of King Haakon, has also apologized for her friendship with Epstein.
In parallel, parliament has appointed an external commission of academics and legal experts to investigate the matters further. This commission, tasked with improving the integrity and transparency of Norwegian authorities, is expected to deliver its findings in early 2028. The investigation covers more than three decades of Norwegian diplomatic history.