Statement by the Gates Foundation

The Gates Foundation is aware of emails recently released by the U.S. Department of Justice that include communication between Jeffrey Epstein and Gates Foundation staff. We will continue to review materials released in connection with this matter.

On the basis of Epstein’s claims that he could mobilize significant philanthropic resources for global health and development, a small number of foundation employees interacted with Epstein to try to secure this potential funding. Ultimately, the foundation did not pursue any collaboration with Epstein and no fund was ever created. At no time were financial payments made by the foundation to Epstein, nor was he employed by the foundation at any time.

The harm Epstein inflicted on women and girls was horrific, and no one should ever have to experience what they did. The safety and wellbeing of women and girls is core to the foundation’s mission of helping every person live a healthy and productive life, which we remain fully committed to. The foundation regrets having any employees interact with Epstein in any way.