Jagland faces gross corruption charges
Former Norwegian Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland has been charged with "gross corruption" due to connections with the infamous US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, authorities revealed. Jagland denies any wrongdoing and is cooperating with investigations, according to his legal team.
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Immunity was stripped from Jagland, formerly the head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee and secretary general of the Council of Europe. This move paved the way for charges after an Økokrim investigation into alleged corruption during his time from 2011 to 2018.
Documents released by the US Government suggest that Jagland arranged personal visits to Epstein's residences in Paris, New York, and Palm Beach. Travel costs for these visits, uncovered in the "Epstein files," were reportedly covered by Epstein himself.
Three properties linked to Jagland were searched by Økokrim, including his Oslo home. They're now set to interrogate him as further evidence unfolds. Reports also hint at a failed attempt by Jagland to secure a bank loan with help from Epstein, though it's unclear if this included in the charges.
This incident embroils various figures, dragging Norway into the Epstein debacle. High-profile personalities from the country, like Crown Princess Mette-Marit and former diplomats, are being scrutinized. Mette-Marit apologised after it was revealed she maintained a friendship with Epstein for three years.
Former diplomats Mona Juul and Terje Rød-Larsen face their investigations for "aggravated corruption." A will allegedly signed by Epstein suggested money transfers to Juul's children. Both deny wrongdoing and await legal clarifications.
World Economic Forum's CEO, Borge Brende, ordered a review into his ties with Epstein, admitting to meetings but claiming ignorance of Epstein's criminal past. Brende welcomes this investigation as part of ongoing transparency efforts.
The scandal widens. As Norwegian figures grapple with consequences, the reverberations of Epstein's connections continue to shake prominent circles on an international scale.
Key Takeaways
Former PM Jagland charged over Epstein links.
Immunity revoked, property searches conducted.
High-profile Norwegians caught in widening scandal.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 12 Feb 2026
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