**External Review Clears Gates Foundation of Wrongdoing in Epstein Links**
**Published: July 21, 2026**
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has concluded an external review that found no evidence of wrongdoing or criminal activity in its connections with Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender. The review, conducted by the law firm WilmerHale, began in March 2026 and was prompted by concerns regarding the foundation's past interactions with Epstein.
The foundation released the findings on Tuesday, detailing two notable instances of engagement with Epstein between 2011 and 2014. The first instance involved discussions about a proposed donor-advised fund (DAF) aimed at supporting global public health initiatives. However, the foundation ultimately decided not to pursue the fund after it became clear that Epstein had misrepresented the interest and commitment of potential donors. This realization emerged during a breakfast meeting in 2014.
The second instance cited in the report involved the International Peace Institute (IPI), which Epstein introduced to Bill Gates in 2012. Following a presentation by IPI on polio eradication campaigns in 2013, the Gates Foundation awarded a grant to the organization. The report confirmed that Gates was aware of Epstein's connections to IPI's president at the time.
As part of the review process, the Gates Foundation has committed to implementing new safeguards to prevent similar situations in the future. These measures include a more centralized vetting process for potential donors and partners, as well as an expansion of its policies regarding conflicts of interest. The foundation has also indicated plans to enhance training related to the handling of sensitive information and records.
The release of the review's findings comes on the heels of a significant announcement from Warren Buffett, chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, who recently stated that he would cease donations to the Gates Foundation. Buffett has been a major supporter of the foundation, contributing over $47 billion in Berkshire stock since 2006.
In a hearing before the U.S. Congress’s House Oversight Committee in June, Bill Gates acknowledged his past connections with Epstein, describing them as a "grave error in judgment." The foundation's external review aimed to clarify its relationship with Epstein and reassure the public regarding its commitment to ethical practices in philanthropy.
The findings of the review are likely to have implications for the foundation as it seeks to maintain its reputation and continue its philanthropic efforts globally. The Gates Foundation, known for its significant contributions to public health and education, will now focus on implementing the recommended changes to ensure transparency and accountability in its operations.