Susanne Nyström: Why the scandal in Norway is worse than the storms in the other royal houses
Susanne Nyström discusses the severity of the recent scandals affecting the Norwegian royal family, emphasizing that the only way to sever ties would be through the divorce of the Crown Prince couple.
In her article, Susanne Nyström examines the troubling scandals that have emerged within the Norwegian royal family, suggesting that they have surpassed similar issues faced by other European royal households. Notably, she highlights significant incidents from the year 2025, including the release of a controversial documentary by Princess Märtha Louise and her husband, as well as the chronic health deterioration of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, which has necessitated close consideration of a lung transplant. Additionally, the legal troubles involving Mette-Marit's son, Marius Borg Høiby, including serious charges, have cast a long shadow over the royal family’s public image.
Nyström argues that the combination of health crises and legal disputes creates a precarious situation for the Norwegian monarchy, suggesting that the only viable solution to address the scandals might be for the Crown Prince couple to separate. The looming trial against Høiby, along with the public's perception of the royal family, has raised questions about the institution's stability and reputation. Expectations for 2026 are notably bleak as the royal family prepares to confront these challenges, further complicating their public relations and future.
The implications of ongoing scandals are profound, as they not only affect the royal family's internal dynamics but also their standing in Norwegian society. The author posits that the royal family must navigate these turbulent waters carefully to maintain public support and relevance in an era where traditional institutions face scrutiny. As the narrative unfolds, all eyes will be on Norway to see how the monarchy will manage these challenges, with significant ramifications for its future.