UN Experts Say Epstein Abuses May Constitute ‘Crimes Against Humanity’

Panel calls for independent investigation into sex-trafficking ring following release of millions of documents

A group of United Nations experts has suggested that abuses committed by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein could meet the legal definition of crimes against humanity, following the release of millions of pages of government documents related to the case.

The independent experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) issued a statement Tuesday responding to files released by the US government under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a bipartisan law signed in November requiring the publication of all Epstein-related documents.

‘Global Criminal Enterprise’

The experts described records that tell a story of “dehumanisation, racism and corruption” involving Epstein and his associates, who include prominent figures in global politics, business, science and culture.

“So grave is the scale, nature, systematic character, and transnational reach of these atrocities against women and girls, that a number of them may reasonably meet the legal threshold of crimes against humanity,” the experts wrote.

They added that the revelations from the files suggest a “global criminal enterprise” requiring independent investigation.

“All the allegations contained in the ‘Epstein Files’ are egregious in nature and require independent, thorough, and impartial investigation, as well as inquiries to determine how such crimes could have taken place for so long,” the panel said.

Document Release and Criticism

The January 30 release of 3.5 million pages of files came after the 30-day deadline stipulated in the November legislation passed by Congress. Reports indicate the government may hold more than 6 million files in total.

While the newly released documents have revealed new details about Epstein’s relationships with influential figures, few associates have faced accountability. Critics have slammed heavy redactions that appear to shield the identities of powerful individuals connected to Epstein.

“The reluctance to fully disclose information or broaden investigations has left many survivors feeling retraumatized and subjected to what they describe as ‘institutional gaslighting,'” the UN experts said.

Lawmakers have argued that the administration of President Donald Trump—a former friend of Epstein—has defied the November law by redacting documents beyond the guidelines set by Congress. The UN panel also noted “botched redactions that exposed sensitive victim information.”

Epstein’s History

Epstein faced limited legal consequences during his lifetime for the sex crimes he perpetuated. In 2008, he reached a plea deal in Florida, pleading guilty to soliciting a child for prostitution and sex trafficking, but served only 13 months in custody.

He was arrested on federal charges in 2019 and died by suicide in his jail cell while awaiting trial.

His former girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison for her role in the sex-trafficking scheme.

The UN experts emphasized that more must be done to ensure justice for survivors.

“Any suggestion that it is time to move on from the ‘Epstein files’ is unacceptable,” they said. “It represents a failure of responsibility towards victims.”