The trial is scheduled to run from early February to mid-March 2026. Photo credit: Wikipedia CC
Norway is recording an increase in women reporting abuse as a member of the extended royal family prepares to stand trial on rape charges. The case centres on Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit and stepson of Crown Prince Haakon. Although he holds no royal title and is not in the line of succession, his family connection has drawn significant public attention.
Høiby is due to stand trial in Oslo in February 2026 following a lengthy police investigation. Prosecutors have charged him with four counts of rape, along with a series of additional offences, including domestic violence and abuse against former partners. He denies the allegations and is expected to contest the charges in court.
The investigation and charges
Timeline and legal process
The investigation began after Høiby was arrested in August 2024. Norwegian police examined allegations spanning several years and involving multiple complainants. In August 2025, prosecutors confirmed the charges, describing the case as one of the most extensive sexual offence investigations involving a high-profile individual in recent Norwegian history.
Most Read on Euro Weekly News
The trial is scheduled to run from early February to mid-March 2026, reflecting the scale and complexity of the case. If convicted on the most serious charges, Høiby could face a lengthy prison sentence under Norwegian law.
Impact on public reporting
Rise in abuse disclosures
Women’s organisations in Norway say the publicity surrounding the case has coincided with an increase in women coming forward to report domestic violence and sexual abuse. Advocacy groups note that high-profile cases can reduce barriers to reporting by showing that abuse can occur regardless of social background or status.
Sanitetskvinnene, a long-established women’s health organisation, has reported increased contact with support services during periods of intense media coverage. Campaigners argue that visibility can encourage victims to seek help, particularly in cases involving intimate partner violence, which remains widely underreported.
Public scrutiny and debate
Societal response to the case
The case has prompted wider discussion in Norway about accountability, power dynamics, and the challenges victims face when reporting abuse. While Norway is often cited for its strong gender equality policies, advocacy groups stress that legal protections alone do not eliminate fear, stigma, or emotional barriers to reporting.
Public debate has also focused on maintaining a clear separation between the legal process and the royal institution. Norwegian authorities have repeatedly stated that Høiby is being treated as a private citizen and that the case is proceeding independently of the monarchy.
Legal position and defence
Denial of allegations
Høiby’s lawyer has confirmed that he denies all rape charges and disputes most of the additional allegations. His legal team has stated that he intends to present his account during the trial and challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
Under Norwegian law, defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The court will examine testimony from complainants, witness statements, and other evidence gathered during the investigation before reaching a verdict.
The royal household’s stance
Distance from the proceedings
The Norwegian royal household has refrained from commenting on the substance of the case. Palace statements have emphasised that Høiby has no official role within the monarchy and does not represent the institution in any capacity.
Observers note that the restrained response reflects Norway’s broader commitment to equality before the law, with no special treatment based on family connections or public profile.
What is known so far
- Marius Borg Høiby is scheduled to stand trial in Oslo in February 2026.
- He faces four rape charges alongside multiple allegations of violence and abuse.
- Women’s organisations report an increase in abuse disclosures following media coverage of the case.
- Høiby denies all rape charges and intends to contest the case.
- Norwegian authorities stress that the proceedings are independent of the royal family.
A wider reckoning
Reporting and accountability
As Norway approaches the trial, advocacy groups continue to call for sustained support for survivors beyond moments of public attention. While high-profile cases can encourage reporting, campaigners stress that long-term resources, trust in institutions, and accessible support services are essential.
The outcome of the trial will be determined by the courts, but its broader impact is already evident. For many, the case has become a catalyst for renewed discussion about abuse, justice, and accountability, highlighting that even in societies with strong legal frameworks, victims still face significant challenges in coming forward.