Gates Foundation had over 30 meetings with Epstein, review reveals
Bill Gates called his Epstein association a 'serious error in judgment'.
1Foundation staff raised concerns
Gates Foundation employees warned about reputational risks from engaging with Jeffrey Epstein. Yet between 2011-2014, the foundation held nearly 30 meetings with Epstein, mostly at his Manhattan townhouse, according to an external review.
2Philanthropic fund proposal
Discussions centered on a never-realized global health fund and a grant to the International Peace Institute. Epstein pitched Gates on creating a donor collective, but later misrepresented donor interest, leading to the project's abandonment.
3Legal clearance but incomplete review
WilmerHale's investigation found no evidence of illegal payments to Epstein. However, the review didn't examine Gates' personal communications or private interactions with Epstein, leaving gaps in understanding the full nature of their relationship.
4Donor meeting controversy
A December 2014 breakfast at Epstein's home included Gates, foundation staff, and potential donors. Gates later concluded Epstein exaggerated donor commitments, terminating the initiative. This marked the foundation's last significant Epstein engagement.
5International Peace Institute link
Epstein introduced Gates to Terje Rød-Larsen in 2012. The foundation later granted the Institute funds for polio eradication. Rød-Larsen resigned in 2020 over Epstein ties, exposing flaws in the foundation's vetting processes for grantees.
6Lasting reputational damage
The scandal raises ethical questions about one of the world's largest charities. While the foundation strengthened its vetting protocols, the Epstein association has caused enduring harm to Gates' personal and professional reputation.