What are the Epstein files, and why do they matter?

The Epstein files, sealed for years and the object of frenzied speculation, are one step closer to being released to the public.

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Both the US House of Representatives and Senate moved on Nov 18 to order the release of government files related to the investigation of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The wealthy and well-connected financier died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on charges of sex trafficking underage girls.

But his death did nothing to stanch the furore over his connections with high-profile business executives, celebrities and politicians, including former close friend, President Donald Trump.

So what exactly are the Epstein files?

EPSTEIN FILES

They refer to the reams of evidence amassed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) during a probe in Florida that led to Epstein’s 2008 conviction for procuring a minor for prostitution and the investigation that led to his later indictment in New York.

Only a sliver of the government material has been released publicly, and a slew of revelations about Epstein in recent days comes from email traffic surrendered by his estate.