Norway's parliament launched public hearings on Wednesday into the connections between late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and prominent Norwegian politicians and diplomats.

The Storting's standing committee on scrutiny and constitutional affairs summoned 11 current and former foreign and development ministers to testify over two days. The hearings focus on foreign ministry practices exposed by recent U.S. document releases, including large grants to the International Peace Institute, a think tank once led by Terje Rød-Larsen.

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, who served as foreign minister from 2005 to 2012, is among those scheduled to appear. Støre has stated he had no personal relation to Epstein. Former foreign minister Børge Brende, now facing questions about his time at the World Economic Forum, resigned from that post after Epstein links surfaced.

Separate police investigations continue into several figures. Former prime minister Thorbjørn Jagland faces charges of aggravated corruption tied to Epstein dealings during his roles at the Nobel Committee and Council of Europe. Diplomats Mona Juul and her husband Terje Rød-Larsen remain under probe for alleged gross corruption and complicity, respectively. Both deny wrongdoing.

The scandal stems from Epstein files released earlier this year showing extensive contacts with Norwegian elites, including plans involving travel and potential financial arrangements. Crown Princess Mette-Marit previously apologized for her past friendship with Epstein.

Parliament also established an external commission of experts to review the matter and recommend improvements to integrity standards in government. Critics argue the probe risks overreach that could hinder diplomatic effectiveness, while supporters emphasize the need for full accountability.

The developments underscore growing international scrutiny of Epstein's network among global leaders and institutions.