The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (UD) faced criticism for continuing to transfer significant sums of money to the International Peace Institute (IPI), a think tank associated with diplomat Terje Rød-Larsen and the notorious financier Jeffrey Epstein, despite receiving warnings regarding a lack of transparency in 2015. At that time, it had been four years since Epstein had first financially engaged with the institute, raising concerns about the fiscal oversight and management of these funds.

The revelations, further highlighted by documents linked to Epstein, have shed light on the problematic connections between Rød-Larsen's think tank and Epstein, prompting questions about the accountability of the Norwegian government in its financial support for organizations lacking proper checks and balances. It raises concerns about the Ministry's diligence in handling taxpayer money and whether adequate measures were taken to safeguard the integrity of these funds over the period.

The financial relationship between Norway and IPI, which amounted to over 130 million kroner until 2018, indicates a substantial investment in the think tank. As criticism grows, there is an increasing demand for transparency and accountability in how such organizations are funded and how they manage their operations, especially in light of the serious allegations surrounding individuals like Epstein. The story calls into question the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and emphasizes the need for reform in how foreign entities are funded by national governments.