Kirsti Bergstø, leader of Norway's Socialist Left Party (SV), has called for complete transparency about gifts received by Nobel Committee members, emphasizing that the current lack of disclosure is inadequate. Although the Nobel Committee recently announced a new practice regarding transparency concerning the roles, interests, and gifts of its members, they have chosen not to reveal past gifts or services received by committee members. Bergstø argues that due to emerging revelations involving figures like Jeffrey Epstein, public trust in political figures and institutions has been severely undermined, necessitating greater accountability from the Nobel Committee.

Bergstø critiques the Committee's reliance on privacy arguments concerning past members, as expressed by Kristian Berg Harpviken, director of the Nobel Institute. She contends that the committee has a responsibility to maintain public trust and should disclose any gifts or benefits that could potentially influence the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize. The call for transparency points to a broader concern about the integrity and impartiality of prestigious awards, particularly in light of any previous connections that committee members may have had with controversial individuals.

The implications of this debate extend beyond just the Nobel Committee; they touch on wider issues of accountability in public institutions. With escalating scrutiny on transparency in political realms, the SV leader's demands could fuel greater discussions around ethical standards and the need for reform within organizations that hold a significant cultural and moral standing, such as the Nobel Committee. The outcome of this push for openness may resonate within other institutions faced with similar challenges regarding their own ethical practices and transparency.