Norway Opens Corruption Probe Into Former PM and Nobel Committee Chair Thorbjoern Jagland Over Epstein Links

Norway’s economic crime police unit, Økokrim, has opened an investigation into former prime minister and former Norwegian Nobel Committee chairman Thorbjoern Jagland on suspicion of aggravated corruption, authorities confirmed on Thursday. The probe follows revelations from newly released files connected to the late U.S. financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which have prompted renewed scrutiny of several prominent international figures.

According to Økokrim, the decision to investigate Jagland is based on information suggesting potential misconduct during the period when he served as chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee and as Secretary General of the Council of Europe. Økokrim director Pål Løseth said there are “reasonable grounds for investigation,” emphasizing that Jagland held influential positions throughout the timeframe covered by the documents.

Jagland has not been charged with any crime. Investigators will examine whether he received gifts, travel benefits, or loans that could be linked to his official roles. As part of the process, Norwegian police requested that Jagland’s immunity, granted due to his former role as head of an international organization, be lifted. The Norwegian Foreign Ministry agreed to the request.

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stated that Norway will formally propose to the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers that Jagland’s immunity be revoked. “It is important that the facts of this case are brought to light,” Eide said, underscoring the government’s support for a transparent investigation.

Jagland’s legal counsel, Anders Brosveet, said his client welcomes the investigation and will cooperate fully with authorities. In a statement to Reuters, Brosveet added that, based on the information reviewed so far, they are confident in a favorable outcome.

The Norwegian Nobel Committee declined to comment directly on the investigation but said it welcomes full clarification of the facts. Jagland is among several high-profile Norwegians whose past associations with Epstein have resurfaced. Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit has also faced criticism, previously acknowledging poor judgment for maintaining contact with Epstein after his conviction.

The case highlights growing international attention on accountability, transparency, and the influence of powerful figures connected to Epstein’s network, as authorities continue to assess the implications of the newly disclosed files.