03.02.2026 23:05
Recently, the Norwegian royal family, which has been in the news due to the Epstein files, breathed a sigh of relief with the voting in parliament. In the vote regarding whether to transition to a republican regime, a decision was made in favor of continuing the monarchy. In the vote held in the 169-seat Norwegian Parliament, 141 members of parliament supported the continuation of the monarchy, while 28 members supported the transition to a republican regime.
Recently, the Norwegian monarchy, which has been experiencing its most challenging days in history due to names appearing in the Epstein files, emerged stronger from the test of the public and politics. The "Republic" proposal, which would fundamentally change the country's governance system in the Norwegian Parliament (Stortinget), was rejected by a significant margin, contrary to the discussions overshadowed by Epstein.
The voting took place during a period when discussions about the monarchy had reignited in the country. Republican supporters argued that the symbolic role of the royal family does not align with contemporary democratic values, while monarchy supporters expressed that the royal institution is important for Norway's stability and national identity.
EPSTEIN FILES SHADOWED THE DISCUSSION
The voting process drew attention with the resurgence of allegations related to the Jeffrey Epstein files, which resonated in the public. Some documents reported in the international press suggested that the name of the Norwegian royal family was mentioned in the context of abuse allegations in the Epstein files. These allegations brought new discussions about the transparency and accountability of the monarchy in the country.
Newly published files revealed that Crown Princess Mette-Marit had corresponded with Jeffrey Epstein for years. This communication, which took place between 2011 and 2014, led to what experts described as a "weak assessment." Mette-Marit stated regarding this relationship, "I acknowledge my mistake, and this contact has been embarrassing for me."
Norwegian officials and the royal side emphasized that there are no official accusations regarding these allegations, calling for caution against speculative comments.
HER SON IS ALSO ACCUSED OF RAPE
The 29-year-old son of the Crown Princess is also facing rape allegations. Mette-Marit’s son, Marius Borg Høiby, is being tried on 38 different charges. In the ongoing case in Vienna, Høiby faces serious charges, including rape, assault, and drug offenses against four women, and if convicted, he could receive a long prison sentence.
THE MONARCHY DEBATE WILL CONTINUE
Although a clear majority was achieved in the parliamentary vote to preserve the monarchy, experts and politicians point out that support for the idea of a republic is increasing, especially among younger generations. Therefore, the monarchy-republic debate is expected to remain on the agenda in Norway in the coming years.