James Bowen, who began working at the International Peace Institute (IPI) in New York in 2015, recently departed from the think tank and now resides in Perth, Australia. As he reviews documents related to Epstein, he finds himself questioning the dynamics he witnessed during his time in New York, particularly regarding the interactions between top diplomats and young female interns. Bowen's reflections reveal a tension between professionalism and qualifications among those working at IPI, notably concerning the influx of attractive young women in intern roles.

Bowen, who was well-qualified for his editorial position at the Global Observatory, noted that while some interns appeared suitably qualified, there were others whose credentials seemed lacking. An anonymous complaint lodged with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in December 2019 hinted at these discrepancies, suggesting that not all interns were fit for their roles. This raises serious concerns about the hiring practices at IPI and whether the atmosphere there contributed to a troubling environment for young women seeking professional opportunities.

As Bowen contemplates these experiences in light of the Epstein documents, it seems he is grappling with broader systemic issues within international organizations regarding power dynamics and the treatment of interns. His situation underscores the need for scrutiny into how such institutions operate, particularly when their reputations rest on their commitment to professionalism and integrity in global diplomacy. The implications of his insights touch upon the ethical responsibilities of organizations in safeguarding the well-being of their younger staff and ensuring equitable hiring processes.