Foreign Minister Barth Eide rejects claims of nepotism and misconduct in the Foreign Ministry

In the recent Epstein hearing, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide rejected allegations of a pervasive “ukultur” within the Norwegian Foreign Ministry, insisting that appointments are not based on personal favoritism. He cautioned against drawing conclusions about the entire institution from the conduct of a handful of people, noting that all former foreign and development ministers have likewise reported no such culture.

Barth Eide expressed pride in leading a competent and conscientious staff, while admitting the ministry has certain weaknesses that must be addressed through robust procedures and leadership. Following the disclosure of ambassador Mona Juul’s contacts with Jeffrey Epstein, he promptly removed her from her ambassadorial duties and launched an investigation into her knowledge of the relationship. He affirmed that Epstein never swayed Norway’s foreign policy and that the scandal has not damaged Norway’s international diplomatic reputation, though it has affected public trust in the foreign service.