Former French Culture Minister Jack Lang has offered to resign as president of the Arab World Institute (IMA) following revelations in newly released documents connected to the Jeffrey Epstein case, the French Foreign Affairs Ministry confirmed on February 7, 2026. The development comes as governments and cultural institutions worldwide face renewed scrutiny over historical associations with disgraced figures.
Lang, who has led the Paris-based institute since 2013, maintains no knowledge of or involvement in Epstein's activities. The IMA – a key France-Arab World cultural partnership – faces potential reputational challenges as it prepares for its 35th anniversary celebrations this year. Analysts suggest the leadership transition could impact France's cultural diplomacy efforts in Middle Eastern markets, where the institute facilitates cross-regional business and academic exchanges.
While the French government has not yet accepted Lang's resignation, the controversy emerges during sensitive negotiations for expanded Gulf investment in European cultural initiatives. The IMA's board is expected to convene an emergency session this week to address governance reforms and maintain donor confidence.
