The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has launched an independent review into its past connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
The foundation said it has commissioned an external investigation to examine earlier engagements with Epstein and review its procedures for vetting partnerships.
The Gates Foundation has launched an independent investigation into ties between the philanthropic organization and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. https://t.co/XVVOEcsOfk pic.twitter.com/fNPnneAdoP
— CNN (@CNN) April 22, 2026
Staff were informed in March, and the process is expected to conclude by summer. The report said it remains unclear whether findings will be made public.
According to documents released by the Justice Department, cited in the report, emails show coordination between Epstein and Bill Gates after Epstein’s 2008 conviction. Gates has apologised internally, calling the association a “mistake,” while denying any personal misconduct.
The report also noted the foundation plans cost cuts, including layoffs, amid broader restructuring efforts.
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