Epstein case: Jack Lang defends his integrity and refuses to step down

Wednesday 04 February 2026 - 17:00

By: Sahili Aya

Epstein case: Jack Lang defends his integrity and refuses to step down

Former French culture minister Jack Lang has publicly defended his integrity after his name appeared in newly released documents linked to the Jeffrey Epstein case, firmly rejecting calls to resign from his role as president of the Arab World Institute in Paris.

Lang, who has led the institution since 2013, acknowledged past contacts with the late American financier but insisted they were limited and based on what he described as personal “naivety.” Speaking to French media, the 86-year-old stressed that he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal background at the time of their interactions, which date back more than a decade.

No legal charges have been brought against Lang, and his inclusion in the vast Epstein-related files does not imply wrongdoing. However, the repeated references to his name and the revelation of financial links involving cultural projects have reignited public scrutiny. His daughter, Caroline Lang, stepped down earlier this week from her position within a film producers’ organization following disclosures about a company she co-founded with Epstein.

Lang confirmed that he had approached Epstein for financial support for cultural and documentary projects, arguing that seeking private patronage was a common and lawful practice in the arts sector. He maintained that all contact ceased once Epstein’s criminal convictions became widely known.

Despite mounting criticism, Lang has made clear that he has no intention of leaving his post. Members of his entourage say the controversy has no impact on the daily operations of the Arab World Institute and denounce what they describe as political exploitation of the Epstein affair.