The Norwegian royal family is facing multiple controversies this week. Princess Mette-Marit is under scrutiny for her past connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, leading several charitable organizations to reconsider or suspend collaborations with her. Meanwhile, her 29-year-old son, Marius Borg Høiby, is standing trial in Oslo, facing four rape charges, which he has denied.
Høiby is not in the line of succession, having been born before Mette-Marit married Crown Prince Haakon in 2001. Crown Prince Haakon confirmed that Høiby is a private citizen, independent of the royal family.
Newly released Epstein documents by the U.S. Department of Justice reveal extensive communications between Mette-Marit and Epstein. The princess has since expressed regret, acknowledging she failed to understand the criminal nature of Epstein at the time. She stated she “rejects all abuse and criminal acts of Epstein” and apologized for any embarrassment caused to the royal family.
The revelations have sparked a public debate in Norway over whether Mette-Marit should ascend to the throne. Analysts report a significant drop in public trust, even though the institution of the monarchy still maintains general support. Her health issues—diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2018, potentially requiring a lung transplant—add to the complexity of her role.
Norwegian organizations, including Sex and Society and three cultural institutions under her patronage, have suspended cooperation with Mette-Marit, citing ethical concerns over her previous associations with Epstein.
Political figures have also weighed in: Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre noted that Mette-Marit demonstrated “poor judgment” in her past relationship with Epstein, highlighting the intense public pressure on the royal family.
Further scrutiny extends beyond Norway. Former Norwegian Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland is under investigation for possible corruption tied to Epstein, and other European royals have appeared in Epstein-related documents, though this does not imply wrongdoing.
The situation underscores the challenges faced by modern monarchies balancing public trust, personal histories, and ethical expectations in the global spotlight.
