By Trendsetter Tribune 
Queen’s University Belfast removes George Mitchell’s name from peace centre and bust after new Epstein files reveal links, citing institutional values and survivor sensitivity.
Queen’s University Belfast has decided to remove the name of former US Senator George Mitchell from its Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice, as well as a bust commemorating him, following revelations in the latest Jeffrey Epstein files.
Mitchell, who chaired the 1998 Good Friday Agreement negotiations and served as the university’s chancellor from 1999 to 2009, is linked in newly released documents, prompting the university to act.
A university spokesperson said:
“While no findings of wrongdoing by Senator Mitchell have been made, the university has concluded that, in light of this material, and mindful of the experiences of victims and survivors, it is no longer appropriate for its institutional spaces and entities to continue to bear his name.”
The spokesperson emphasized the institution’s responsibility to ensure its honours and symbols reflect the highest standards consistent with its values of peace, reconciliation, and justice.
Mitchell’s representative told the BBC that he “profoundly regrets ever having known Jeffrey Epstein” and condemns the harm Epstein caused. The spokesperson also stressed that Mitchell had no knowledge of Epstein engaging in illegal or inappropriate conduct with minors.
In addition, the George J. Mitchell Scholarship Programme, which sends US postgraduate students to universities in Ireland and Northern Ireland, will no longer bear his name. The program’s board cited the new information from the Epstein file release.
Trina Vargo, founder of the US-Ireland Alliance, said:
“We are extremely proud of the programme and the scholars, and this turn of events in no way diminishes their achievements or our commitment to keeping them connected to the island, the alliance, and each other.”
The move reflects a growing sensitivity to associations with Epstein, as institutions reassess links to individuals mentioned in the massive Department of Justice file release.
Queen’s University Belfast joins other organizations in evaluating the reputational and ethical implications of historical associations with Epstein. The decision underscores the university’s commitment to ethical standards, survivor awareness, and global leadership in peace and justice.