Rise in Abuse Reports Amid Royal Family Allegations in Norway

Marius Borg Høiby, the 28-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, is set to stand trial in February 2026 on 32 charges, including four counts of rape, domestic abuse of a former partner, and illegal filming of women without their consent. His lawyer, Petar Sekulic, has stated that Høiby denies all charges of sexual abuse and most violence-related allegations, promising a detailed account of his version of events during the trial.

The Guardian

In the lead-up to Høiby’s trial, Norway’s largest women’s health organization, Sanitetskvinnene, has reported a notable increase in women seeking help for domestic violence and sexual assault. May Britt Buhaug, the organization’s secretary general, indicated that the heightened media attention surrounding Høiby’s case has lowered the threshold for women to come forward. According to Buhaug, “Openness breaks taboos,” suggesting that the trial could contribute to a broader societal dialogue about intimate partner violence and rape. Statistics from the Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies (NKVTS) reveal that one in ten women in Norway has experienced serious violence from an intimate partner.

The Guardian

The allegations against Høiby have not only sparked discussions about domestic violence but have also led to increased scrutiny of the Norwegian royal family. Craig Aaen-Stockdale, leader of the republican group Norge som republikk, noted that their membership has more than tripled in the past two years, largely due to the ongoing scandal. He expressed concerns about the future of the monarchy, stating, “In a few years we may be in a situation where the head of state has a chronically ill wife and a son in prison.” This sentiment reflects a growing discontent with the royal family's current standing amid the allegations.

The Guardian

While the royal palace has not publicly commented on the ongoing situation, the implications of Høiby’s trial are significant for both the royal family and societal attitudes towards domestic violence in Norway. The case has the potential to catalyze further discussions and actions regarding the support available for victims of abuse.

The Guardian

• “Staff at our women’s health centres have seen an increase in women who make contact to ask for help and advice after experiences of violence and sexual assault.” — May Britt Buhaug, Secretary General of Sanitetskvinnene

The Guardian

• “The ongoing omniscandal has really tarnished the reputation of the younger royals, including the future heir.” — Craig Aaen-Stockdale, Leader of Norge som republikk

The Guardian

As the trial approaches, it is expected that the number of women reporting experiences of abuse may continue to rise, highlighting the ongoing challenges surrounding domestic violence in Norway. The outcome of Høiby’s trial could have lasting implications for both the royal family and societal perceptions of abuse.

The Guardian