Oslo – A confluence of scandals is shaking the Norwegian monarchy, as the trial of Marius Borg Høiby, the step-grandson of King Harald V, proceeds alongside intensifying scrutiny of Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s past relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The dual crises are impacting public perception of the royal family, with polls indicating a decline in popularity.
Marius Borg Høiby, 26, went on trial in Oslo on Tuesday, , facing 38 charges including rape of four women, as well as charges of domestic violence. He pleaded not guilty to the most serious rape allegations but acknowledged partial guilt for aggravated assault and reckless behaviour, a legal provision allowed under Norwegian law. He also admitted to lesser charges, including speeding.
The timing of the trial coincides with a surge of attention on Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s connections to Epstein, revealed in recently released court documents. The latest tranche of the Epstein files, made public last , reportedly contains nearly 1,000 mentions of the Crown Princess, prompting her to reconsider plans to leave the country during the trial. The details of her relationship with Epstein remain largely undisclosed, but the sheer volume of mentions in the files has fueled public concern and media speculation.
The unfolding situation presents a significant challenge for King Harald V, who is due to turn 89 later this month. The crises are occurring at a sensitive time for the monarchy, which has traditionally enjoyed strong public support in Norway. The current situation represents a level of scrutiny and public glare exceeding that of previous scandals involving the royal family.
Beyond the immediate impact on the royal family, the Epstein revelations have triggered a wider political storm in Norway. Police have opened a corruption investigation into former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland over his alleged links to Epstein. The investigation, launched by a specialized police unit analyzing the newly released US documents, suspects Jagland of “aggravated corruption.” Authorities have requested the lifting of his diplomatic immunity, citing his past roles as chair of the Nobel Committee and Secretary General of the Council of Europe.
Jagland’s lawyer, Anders Brosveet, has stated his client will fully cooperate with the investigation and expressed confidence in a positive outcome. The investigation will focus on whether Jagland received gifts, travel, or loans in connection with his official positions during the period covered by the Epstein documents. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide emphasized the importance of bringing the facts of the case to light and indicated Oslo would request the Council of Europe to revoke Jagland’s immunity.
The revelations have also sparked debate about the integrity of Norwegian institutions. Some observers have expressed concern about the potential for undue influence and the need for greater transparency in the interactions between public officials and individuals like Epstein. The case has prompted questions about the extent of Epstein’s network and its reach into European political circles.
While the Epstein files have implicated numerous high-profile individuals globally, including figures in the United Kingdom and the United States, the Norwegian response has been particularly notable for the swift launch of a formal investigation into a former head of state. This suggests a determination to address the allegations thoroughly and demonstrate accountability.
Despite the mounting scandals, Notice indications of continued support for the monarchy. Recent reporting suggests that while many Norwegians are disappointed by the revelations, a significant portion of the population remains supportive of the institution. However, the long-term impact of the crises on public trust and the future of the monarchy remains uncertain.
The Council of Europe has initiated proceedings to lift the immunity of Thorbjørn Jagland, a move that will allow Norwegian authorities to proceed with their investigation. This decision underscores the seriousness with which the allegations are being treated and the willingness of international institutions to cooperate with national investigations.
The situation is being closely watched across Europe, as other countries grapple with the fallout from the Epstein files and the implications for their own political establishments. The Norwegian case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for hidden connections and the importance of rigorous scrutiny of those in positions of power.
As the trial of Marius Borg Høiby continues and the investigation into Thorbjørn Jagland progresses, Norway faces a period of intense public scrutiny and political uncertainty. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the long-term consequences of these interconnected scandals for the Norwegian monarchy and the country’s political landscape.
