Revoked Diplomatic Passport Belonging to Marius Borg Høiby
The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in consultation with the Palace's communication manager, has reviewed the usage of diplomatic passports by members of the Royal House. The review did not result in any changes to the passports held by the named individuals, except for Marius Borg Høiby, Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son, whose diplomatic passport was revoked six months ago.
The revocation came about due to the misuse of the diplomatic privilege, as Borg Høiby allegedly used his diplomatic passport for private trips to gain improper advantages and escape difficult situations abroad, sometimes under the influence. These actions were taken amidst serious legal charges against him, including multiple counts of rape and sexual assault.
Despite the revocation, other members of the royal family, such as Prince Sverre Magnus, Princess Märtha Louise, and Princess Astrid, continue to hold diplomatic passports. Borg Høiby, however, has since travelled on a personal passport.
The Norwegian royal family has stated that the legal process against Borg Høiby is ongoing, and that normal procedures are being followed. They have not provided any additional comments regarding the case.
The details of the conclusion reached by the Palace and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding diplomatic passport usage were not disclosed. However, the situation has raised questions about the use of diplomatic privileges and the scrutiny that such usage is subjected to.
Recently, Borg Høiby travelled abroad with Crown Prince Haakon and Prince Sverre Magnus at the end of July 2022. Prior to his recent arrest, sources close to the Crown Princess's son had confirmed his alleged misuse of his diplomatic passport on multiple occasions.
The implications for the Norwegian royal family include reputational damage due to the serious nature of the allegations against a close family member and the negative publicity surrounding the misuse of diplomatic privileges. The situation has also highlighted the strict scrutiny and procedural steps the royal family and Norwegian authorities take regarding diplomatic documents and privileges, suggesting efforts to maintain institutional integrity and public trust despite internal challenges.
- Despite the revocation of Marius Borg Høiby's diplomatic passport, other members of the Norwegian royal family, including Prince Sverre Magnus, Princess Märtha Louise, and Princess Astrid, still hold diplomatic passports.
- The Norwegian royal family faces reputational damage due to the serious nature of the allegations against Marius Borg Høiby, including multiple counts of rape and sexual assault.
- The misuse of diplomatic privileges by Borg Høiby, such as using his diplomatic passport for private trips to escape difficult situations abroad, has raised questions about the use of diplomatic passports and the scrutiny they are subjected to.
- The situation surrounding Borg Høiby's misuse of his diplomatic passport and the subsequent legal charges against him has highlighted the strict scrutiny and procedural steps the Norwegian royal family and authorities take regarding diplomatic documents and privileges.
- News outlets cover the ongoing legal process against Borg Høiby, offering general news and crime-and-justice updates, as well as keeping the public informed about cultural, societal, art, travel, politics, and entertainment events.