The release of Epstein files has sparked a significant political uproar in Norway. This follows the unveiling of connections between prominent figures and the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, who was convicted of sex crimes. The latest batch of documents, consisting of around 3 million pages, was made public under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed by former President Donald Trump in November.
Key Figures Involved in the Scandal
- Thorbjorn Jagland: Former Prime Minister of Norway, under investigation for corruption linked to gifts and benefits from Epstein.
- Borge Brende: Norway’s former foreign minister who had multiple business dinners with Epstein.
- Crown Princess Mette-Marit: Alleged to have had a close relationship with Epstein, with numerous emails between them.
Thorbjorn Jagland’s Investigation
Thorbjorn Jagland, 75, is a veteran politician in Norway’s Labour Party. He served as Prime Minister from 1996 to 1997 and held the position of foreign affairs minister from 2000 to 2001. Previously, he was the head of parliament. Jagland’s connections to Epstein surfaced during his tenure as secretary-general of the Council of Europe and chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee.
Norwegian police announced they are investigating whether Jagland received illegal benefits from Epstein. Emails indicating potential arrangements for a visit to Epstein’s Caribbean island in 2014 have raised concerns. Jagland has denied any wrongdoing and stated that his interactions with Epstein were unwise.
Borge Brende’s Involvement
Borge Brende was Norway’s foreign minister from 2013 to 2017 and is currently the head of the World Economic Forum. The Epstein files reveal that Brende had several business dinners with Epstein and communicated with him through emails and texts. Brende expressed regret about not investigating Epstein’s background and has pledged to cooperate with any inquiries into his past connections.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s Connection
Crown Princess Mette-Marit is also scrutinized due to her personal correspondence with Epstein. The recent files revealed hundreds of messages exchanged over several years, some of which included casual and troubling remarks. Following the revelations, Mette-Marit expressed regret for her contact with Epstein and sympathized with his victims.
Public and Political Response
The scandal has prompted calls for a thorough investigation from various political factions in Norway. Current Foreign Affairs Minister Espen Barth Eide has supported police actions, while opposition parties have demanded an independent committee to scrutinize the situation further. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has indicated that an investigative committee may not be the appropriate avenue for clarity in this matter.
As the investigation unfolds, the implications for Norwegian politics and the relationships between high-profile figures and Epstein continue to grow, raising questions about the integrity of political institutions and personal conduct among leaders.
