Thorbjørn Jagland, former Prime Minister of Norway and ex-Secretary General of the Council of Europe, is currently facing serious allegations of corruption, prompting the Norwegian National Authority for Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Environmental Crime (Økokrim) to search his residences in Oslo and Risør. This investigation follows a recent decision by the ministerial committee of the Council of Europe to lift his immunity, which previously protected him from criminal prosecution during his time in office.

Jagland was granted immunity to ensure that officials in high-ranking international positions could operate independently, especially those involved in fighting corruption and protecting human rights. However, the lifting of this immunity means that Økokrim can now pursue a formal investigation, conduct interrogations, and seize evidence if necessary, evaluating whether Jagland committed any criminal acts during his tenure as Secretary General.

The implications of this case are significant, as it not only brings scrutiny to Jagland's actions but also highlights the broader issues of accountability for public officials in Norway and internationally. As the investigation unfolds, it may have repercussions for the Council of Europe and its policies on the immunity of officials accused of misconduct, potentially leading to calls for reform in how such protections are administered.