The Epstein scandal: why not everything published in the US can be used in Lithuania
The article discusses the limitations on using publicly available documents related to the Epstein scandal in Lithuania due to European data protection and privacy laws.
This article sheds light on the implications of the Epstein scandal documents that were released by US authorities and how their use is restricted in Lithuania and other EU countries. It emphasizes that while these documents have been made public under US law, this does not automatically grant unrestricted access or usage rights in Europe, where strict data protection and privacy regulations apply. Failure to adhere to these regulations could lead to legal consequences for individuals or organizations utilizing the data inappropriately.
The article highlights the specific legal framework in the US that allowed for the release of these documents, namely the 'Epstein Files Transparency Act' enacted by the US Congress in November 2025. This legislation mandated the US Department of Justice to release all unclassified documents related to the Epstein case within a 30-day period, while also prohibiting the redaction of information for reputational or political reasons. Notably, it emphasized that names of law enforcement officials, politicians, and prominent business figures mentioned in the documents must remain unredacted, ensuring transparency in the disclosure process.
Overall, the article calls attention to the importance of understanding the legal disparities between the US and EU regarding data privacy and the ramifications that arise from these differences. As the conversations around the Epstein scandal continue, it becomes crucial for legal practitioners in Lithuania to navigate these complexities to avoid potential legal pitfalls stemming from misuse of the released information.