A criminal investigation has been launched in Norway into former Prime Minister and Council of Europe Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland, alleging gross corruption linked to his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The investigation, which began in February 2026, centers on the nature of Jagland’s ties to Epstein and whether those connections involved any illicit activity.
The probe follows the release of millions of documents from the Department of Justice’s “Epstein Library,” revealing a network of powerful individuals who interacted with Epstein. Emails within these files demonstrate Jagland’s close association with Epstein, with the latter actively seeking to connect the Norwegian politician with other influential figures.
One email, dated , shows Epstein messaging Bill Gates’s assistant to arrange a dinner, listing potential guests including then-UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, film director Woody Allen, the Prime Minister of Qatar, Harvard academics, and several business leaders. Notably, Epstein tentatively suggested inviting actress Anne Hathaway and “victoria secret models?” before asking, “Who on the list do you think he would enjoy the most?”
The released correspondence paints a picture of a patriarchal environment where wealthy and powerful men cultivated relationships and women were often relegated to peripheral roles. The emails reveal a pattern of networking, joking, and information exchange among these men, with women primarily present to organize schedules, provide hospitality, or as potential companions.
Another email, referenced in the Guardian’s reporting, details Epstein informing Richard Branson that Thorbjørn Jagland, then head of the Nobel Peace Prize committee, would be staying with him in New York, suggesting Branson might find him “interesting.” This exchange highlights Epstein’s practice of leveraging his connections to provide access to influential individuals.
The Epstein files also reveal a stark contrast in how Epstein communicated with men versus women. While messages to men often involved networking and social arrangements, communications with women frequently contained inappropriate and exploitative content.
The files demonstrate a system of favors and flattery within Epstein’s network. Individuals were routinely offered assistance with career advancement, reputational management, and access to exclusive events. Epstein himself actively sought to cultivate relationships with powerful figures, offering introductions and leveraging his connections to enhance his own influence.
The role of female assistants within this network is also prominent. Epstein’s long-term executive assistant, Lesley Groff, was responsible for managing schedules, travel arrangements, and logistical details for both Epstein and his guests. Emails show Groff coordinating travel for women to meet Epstein, arranging accommodations, and handling financial transactions related to their travel expenses.
The investigation into Jagland comes amid broader scrutiny of individuals linked to Epstein, and raises questions about the extent to which powerful figures may have been aware of or complicit in his criminal activities. While the specific allegations against Jagland remain undisclosed, the Norwegian police investigation signals a serious examination of his relationship with Epstein and its potential implications.
The Guardian’s analysis of the Epstein files underscores a pattern of behavior where women were often objectified and treated as secondary to the interests of the men within Epstein’s circle. The files reveal instances of women being evaluated based on their physical appearance and subjected to inappropriate advances.
The investigation into Jagland is particularly sensitive given his prominent role in Norwegian politics and international diplomacy. He served as Prime Minister of Norway from to , and later as Secretary General of the Council of Europe from to . His tenure at the Council of Europe involved addressing issues of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, making the allegations of corruption particularly damaging to his legacy.
The case also highlights the broader issue of sexual abuse and exploitation within international organizations, as evidenced by reports of misconduct involving UN peacekeepers. The Guardian’s reporting and other investigations have revealed a pattern of abuse and impunity in various international settings, raising concerns about the need for greater accountability and oversight.
The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what evidence will emerge and whether any charges will be filed against Jagland. However, the revelations from the Epstein files have already cast a shadow over his career and raised serious questions about his judgment and ethical conduct.
