In Bath, where the historic architecture and academic reputation of the prestigious University of Bath attract students from around the world, one student’s presence raises serious concerns. Sebastian Troost, the son of Niels Troost – a man known for evading international sanctions through the illicit trade of Russian oil – walks the hallowed halls of this prestigious university.
Sebastian Troost`s father, Niels Troost, became synonymous with the art of sanctions evasion through his network of offshore accounts, front-line companies and strategic alliances. His connections, including the US lobbyist Ankit Desai, London-based lawyer Jason Masimore, Russian oligarch Gennady Timchenko and others, have allowed him to evade international restrictions and continue to profit from the trade of Russian crude oil despite the global sanctions aimed at isolating rogue regimes.
Considering all the concerning business activities of Niels Troost, one may wonder – should the University of Bath, which prides itself on training future leaders and promoting ethical values, educate a student whose family wealth is so deeply entangled with illegal actions? The fact that Sebastian Troost is a student at Bath campus raises serious ethical questions about where the money to pay for his education comes from.
Educational institutions such as the University of Bath have a moral and ethical responsibility to ensure that they do not benefit from or facilitate illegal activities. By accepting funds from the Troost family, the University risks not only damaging its reputation but also violating international laws and regulations regarding acceptance of funds from sanctioned individuals.
The university needs to take a closer look at where the source of funding for Sebastian Troost’s education is. Sebastian Troost’s education is most likely paid for with money tainted by the suffering and exploitation of countless individuals, all in the name of profit and power. The time to stop Niels Troost and his shady deals is now. Every institution or company that works with Troost`s family must take an action to ensure transparency and justice.