Norwegian authorities have commenced a corruption inquiry targeting former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland after new details surfaced regarding his connections to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The investigation was triggered by documents made public by the United States Department of Justice, which disclosed extensive communication between Jagland and Epstein. These records include emails that imply the former Norwegian leader may have stayed at Epstein’s home. Jagland served as the Prime Minister of Norway from 1996 to 1997 and subsequently occupied significant international roles, including chairman of the Nobel Committee and secretary- general of the Council of Europe.
Økokrim, Norway’s authority tasked with white-collar crime investigations, announced that it has identified “reasonable grounds” to suspect serious corruption. The agency is looking into whether Jagland accepted gifts, benefits associated with travel, or loans in relation to his official duties.
In the course of the investigation, Økokrim has requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Norway to seek the revocation of Jagland's diplomatic immunity, which he holds due to his past position at the Council of Europe. Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stressed that immunity should not impede the pursuit of truth, indicating that Norway would formally ask the Council of Europe to eliminate Jagland’s protection.
Reports from local media state that Jagland’s lawyer mentioned his client is cooperative and remains composed about the ongoing investigation.
This matter represents the latest episode in a growing scandal in Norway following revelations regarding Epstein's associations with various prominent political and business figures. Earlier this week, Crown Princess Mette-Marit publicly expressed remorse over what she called a lapse in judgment after documents indicated that she had significant communication with Epstein while also showing compassion for his victims.
Additionally, the World Economic Forum (WEF) has initiated a separate internal inquiry into the interactions between its president and CEO, Borge Brende, and Epstein. The Geneva-based organisation highlighted that this investigation is intended to elucidate the nature of their relationship and reiterate its dedication to transparency.
Brende, who previously served as Norway’s foreign minister, acknowledged attending a few dinners that included Epstein and noted that he exchanged limited messages with him. However, he stated that he was not aware of Epstein’s criminal history at the time. He expressed his complete support for the review, stating that he had personally requested it.
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