Did Jeffrey Epstein use Nobel glam to entice global elites?
Times of India
by APFebruary 15, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Jeffrey Epstein’s massive cache of documents reveals that he exploited his alleged connection to Thorbjorn Jagland, a former head of the Nobel Peace Prize committee, to entice influential figures like Richard Branson, Bill Gates, Larry Summers, and Steve Bannon. The files show Epstein repeatedly boasted about hosting Jagland at his properties in New York and Paris during the 2010s, using these ties as leverage to build relationships with global elites. This strategy appears to have been part of a broader effort to gain influence among powerful individuals.
Jagland, who served as the head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee from 2009 to 2015, has since become a key figure in a corruption investigation triggered by information in Epstein’s files. Norwegian police have charged him with “aggravated corruption,” probing whether he accepted gifts, travel, or loans related to his position. While there is no direct evidence linking him to any overt lobbying for the Nobel Peace Prize, the documents suggest Epstein used Jagland’s esteemed role to bolster his own credibility and access to power.
The files also detail specific exchanges between Epstein and other elites. For instance, in 2018, Epstein texted Bannon about Jagland’s role in deciding the Nobel Peace Prize, suggesting a close relationship with the committee head. Similarly, Epstein emailed Bill Gates in 2014, informing him of Jagland’s re-election as head of the Council of Europe and hinting at potential opportunities for collaboration. These interactions highlight how Epstein leveraged his connections to create a network of influence among global leaders.
This story underscores the intersection of power, privilege, and ethical concerns in international circles. The investigation into Epstein’s activities has brought significant attention to the potential misuse of influence within elite networks. For readers interested in global politics and ethics, this reveals how individuals like Epstein exploited their connections to gain access to—and potentially manipulate—some of the world’s most powerful figures.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/15/2026