At , Jack Lang, a prominent figure in French politics and former Minister of Culture, announced his resignation as president of the Arab World Institute (IMA). This decision follows the opening of a financial investigation into alleged links between Lang and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and the release of extensive documentation detailing those connections.
The investigation, initiated by the National Financial Prosecutor’s Office, centers on allegations of “laundering of aggravated tax fraud” involving both Jack Lang and his daughter, Caroline Lang. This development stems from the release of nearly 3 million documents related to Epstein by U.S. Authorities on . These “Epstein Files” contain over 670 mentions of Jack Lang’s name, alongside references to his daughter and an offshore company, Prytanee LLC.
While being named in the documents does not equate to guilt, it signals a connection, direct or indirect, to Epstein’s network. Specifically, the files reportedly detail a bequest of 5 million dollars (approximately 4.6 million euros) recorded in Epstein’s will, and link Caroline Lang to Prytanee LLC. Lang has stated he welcomes the investigation, expressing confidence it will “shed light on accusations that undermine my integrity and my honor” and dismissing them as “unfounded.”
The timing of this controversy is particularly sensitive. Lang, 86, had held the position of president of the IMA since 2013. His resignation was presented as a measure to protect the institution from being embroiled in the legal and public relations fallout of the scandal. The French Foreign Ministry, which oversees the IMA, initiated the process of finding a successor immediately following his announcement.
The situation has escalated beyond the legal realm. Following the circulation of images showing Lang and his wife, Monique Lang, in Marrakech, Morocco, between and , the couple were placed under police protection on due to threats received on social media. This necessitates escorted travel and heightened security at their home in Bonnieux, in the Luberon region of France, described by those close to the family as a cherished “haven of peace.”
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the health of Monique Lang, Jack Lang’s wife of over sixty years. Reports indicate she is currently “very physically weakened,” though details regarding her condition have not been publicly disclosed. The family has maintained privacy regarding her health concerns.
The couple has previously experienced personal tragedy with the loss of their daughter, Valérie, who died in 2013 at the age of 47 from a brain tumor. This prior loss adds a layer of vulnerability to the current challenges facing the Lang family.
The unfolding events represent a significant fall from grace for Jack Lang, a figure once considered untouchable in French political and cultural circles. Known for his influential role as Minister of Culture under Socialist President François Mitterrand in the 1980s and 1990s, Lang’s legacy is now overshadowed by the allegations surrounding his connection to Jeffrey Epstein. The investigation is ongoing, and the full extent of any financial ties remains to be determined.
The case highlights the far-reaching consequences of the Epstein affair, extending beyond the United States and impacting prominent individuals in other countries. The release of the Epstein Files continues to generate scrutiny and investigations into the network of associates connected to the convicted sex offender, even years after his death in prison in 2019.
