The controversy arises from a report by the German magazine 'Der Spiegel' stating that United States federal authorities disclosed that Ghislaine Maxwell, who was a partner to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, had been in possession of an international press card issued in Germany. Maxwell, who was previously Epstein's girlfriend and a key figure in the human trafficking cases linked to him, had her card identified in documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice late last year.

The press card was issued by the German Journalists' Association (DJU), part of the largest journalists union in the world, and bears her name along with a descriptor indicating she was affiliated with Ver.di, a union for the service sector in Germany. The revelation has sparked significant debate within Germany about the credentials and legitimacy of press cards as well as the connection between journalism and individuals involved in criminal activities.

As debates unfold regarding the proper use of press credentials, concerns have also been raised about the implications of Maxwell holding such a card, especially given her prior involvement with Epstein, who died in prison while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. This situation prompts a broader dialogue on media ethics, the integrity of professional associations, and the scrutiny that public figures must endure, particularly those associated with high-profile criminal cases.