**Norway Launches Investigation into Senior Officials Over Jeffrey Epstein Links**
Oslo, Norway – Norway's Parliament has initiated a significant investigation involving 11 current and former high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, in connection with alleged ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The inquiry follows the release of extensive Epstein-related documents by the U.S. Department of Justice in January, which unveiled connections between Epstein and various influential figures globally, including politicians and royals.
The investigation was prompted by revelations that Norway's Foreign Ministry allocated over 130 million kroner (approximately $13.5 million) to the International Peace Institute (IPI) between 1997 and 2018. The IPI, a United Nations-affiliated think tank, was led by Terje Rod-Larsen, a prominent Norwegian diplomat known for his role in the 1993 Oslo Accords, from 2005 to 2020. Reports have surfaced implicating Rod-Larsen in connections to Epstein, including allegations of illicit loans and visa fraud related to sex-trafficked women. Notably, Epstein reportedly bequeathed millions to Rod-Larsen's children in his will.
The public hearing, which commenced on September 30, aims to address the implications of these findings and restore trust in Norway's foreign service. Jonas Andersen Sayed, the chair of the parliamentary Committee on Scrutiny and Constitutional Affairs, emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "There are many people who have demonstrated very poor judgment," referencing those connected to Epstein.
During his testimony, Prime Minister Stoere denied any personal relationship with Epstein and characterized the issues as isolated incidents rather than indicative of a broader systemic problem within the Foreign Ministry. He asserted, "There is no reason to speak of an unhealthy culture at a large organization just because of what one or several people may have done." Stoere maintained that, to his knowledge, Epstein did not influence Norway's foreign policy or development aid decisions.
The inquiry has drawn mixed reactions, with some, like former development minister Erik Solheim, arguing that the parliamentary probe may be an overreaction that could hinder the effectiveness of the foreign service. Solheim warned that unnecessary self-restraint among diplomats could ultimately harm Norway's national interests.
In addition to the parliamentary inquiry, several prominent Norwegians linked to Epstein, including former Prime Minister Thorbjoern Jagland, Terje Rod-Larsen, and his wife, former diplomat Mona Juul, are currently under police investigation for corruption allegations. All three individuals have denied any wrongdoing.
Andersen Sayed highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, "The Epstein documents raise serious questions about abuse of office, a culture of accountability failures, and poor management of development aid funds." He underscored the importance of restoring public trust in the system, asserting that all facts must be thoroughly examined and necessary reforms implemented.
To facilitate a comprehensive investigation, Parliament has established an independent inquiry tasked with conducting a broader examination of the case. This inquiry is expected to submit its final report by January 31, 2028.
As Norway grapples with the fallout from the Epstein revelations, the implications for its foreign service and public trust in government institutions remain a pressing concern. The ongoing investigation and public hearings are set to play a crucial role in determining the future of those implicated and the integrity of Norway's diplomatic efforts.