On February 17, 2026, independent experts engaged by the UN Human Rights Council issued a statement regarding the Epstein affair, indicating that the scale and systematic nature of the atrocities inflicted on women and girls by Epstein and his circle of associates was so severe that many of the acts could meet the legal criteria for crimes against humanity. This development highlights the far-reaching implications of Epstein's actions beyond individual cases, suggesting a broader pattern of systematic abuse.

The experts' assertion focuses on the nature of the crimes, which include offenses such as rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, human trafficking, torture, persecution, and murder. Their statement outlines the necessity of recognizing these acts as patterns of behavior rather than isolated incidents, indicating a persistent attack against women and girls that is both widespread and systematic. By framing these actions within the context of international law, it opens avenues for legal accountability and the potential for future prosecutions.

This acknowledgment from the UN experts not only brings attention to the need for justice for the victims of Epstein's crimes but also signifies a larger conversation regarding systemic abuses of power and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. The implications of deeming such actions as crimes against humanity could impact global policies on human rights and prompt further investigations into similar cases of abuse, ultimately seeking to enhance protections for women and girls worldwide.