Norway Launches Independent Probe into Foreign Office Links with Jeffrey Epstein
In a unanimous decision, the Norwegian parliament has voted to appoint an independent investigative commission to scrutinise connections between its foreign office and the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This move follows the release of files by the US Department of Justice, which have implicated multiple high-profile Norwegian figures.
Prime Minister's Statement on the Investigation
Speaking before the vote, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre addressed the gravity of the situation, paying tribute to Epstein's victims. He emphasised that the files demonstrate how wealth can be used to purchase and abuse influence. Støre stated that links between Norwegians in trusted and central positions have been proven in the Epstein documents.
He added, "Reasonable questions have been raised about whether the links are in violation of the law and many aspects of society's ethical regulations. It is crucial that these circumstances and the questions they raise are clarified, and that the facts are brought to the table."
High-Profile Figures Implicated in the Scandal
The release of the Epstein files in January sent shockwaves through Norway, naming individuals from the highest echelons of society. Among those implicated are:
- Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who is under pressure to explain her years-long relationship with Epstein.
- Mona Juul, Norway's former ambassador to Jordan and Iraq, under investigation by the financial crimes squad, Økokrim, for gross corruption.
- Terje Rød-Larsen, Juul's husband and a former diplomat, investigated for complicity in gross corruption.
- Thorbjørn Jagland, a former Labour prime minister and Nobel committee chair, charged with gross corruption.
- Børge Brende, a former foreign minister, who left his role at the World Economic Forum after being named in the files.
It is important to note that being named in the Epstein files does not indicate wrongdoing, but has prompted investigations.
Details of the Allegations and Investigations
The Epstein files suggest that Juul and Rød-Larsen's children were bequeathed $10 million by Epstein, with Rød-Larsen appointed as executor of Epstein's will in 2017, though this was later revoked. Lawyers for Juul and Rød-Larsen have denied the accusations, expressing confidence that no criminal liability will be found.
Økokrim's investigations extend to Jagland, whose lawyer similarly asserts no basis for criminal liability. The foreign office is also reviewing grants and contacts with the International Peace Institute, linked to Rød-Larsen.
Scope of the Independent Commission's Work
The oversight committee has outlined that the commission will investigate not only contacts between Norwegian politicians, civil servants, and Epstein, but also broader issues such as Norway's campaigns for top positions in international organisations and the allocation and use of development aid.
In his speech to Stortinget, Støre stressed that the files raise serious questions that must be answered to restore public trust. He committed that the government will thoroughly review the commission's report upon delivery.
Emphasis on Trust and Democracy
Støre highlighted the importance of trust in public officials for democracy, stating, "We are and must always be open to improvements and to learning from mistakes. That is why it is important that the issues raised by the release of the Epstein files are now thoroughly reviewed." He also defended the foreign office's work, noting its role in promoting justice and peace globally.
Per-Willy Amundsen, chair of the standing committee on scrutiny and constitutional affairs, echoed these concerns, warning that documented corruption could cause lasting damage to trust and necessitate extraordinary measures for restoration.
