Terje Rød-Larsen received Norwegian government funding for the International Peace Institute (IPI) despite repeated red flags over 15 years. While staff worked closely with the UN on peace initiatives, Rød-Larsen was rarely present in the office.
Documents obtained by E24 show that Norwegian authorities were warned as early as 2009 about financial mismanagement at IPI. Yet annual grants continued without major changes. The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it provided over NOK 100 million ($9.5 million) to IPI during Rød-Larsen’s leadership.
Critics argue the funding ignored structural issues. A former IPI employee told E24 that Rød-Larsen’s physical absence created operational gaps. The institute’s board, which included Norwegian representatives, did not address the concerns publicly.
The ministry defended its decision, stating that IPI’s work on conflict resolution justified the support. However, internal emails from 2018 reveal staff concerns about transparency and accountability. No corrective actions were taken.
Rød-Larsen, a former Norwegian diplomat, has not responded to requests for comment. The case raises questions about how Norway monitors funds allocated to international organizations.
Source: e24.no