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After Epstein: How to hold powerful abusers accountable

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March 13, 2026

The Epstein scandal exposed a system where wealth shields the powerful and victims who come forward often struggle to be believed. Now survivors and advocates are pushing for justice, accountability and lasting change.

Despite decades of allegations and dozens of accusers, only Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell were ever prosecuted, while others linked to the scandal have faced limited scrutiny.

DW spoke with survivors connected to the Epstein files and with advocates about the changes they say are needed to secure lasting justice — even when the system doesn't.

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