News - World Economic Forum Leader Børge Brende Resigns Amid Epstein Contact Scandal

In a significant leadership shift at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Børge Brende announced his resignation today. This decision comes following increased scrutiny over his previous connections with the notorious Jeffrey Epstein, who was convicted of sexual offences. Brende has served as the president and CEO of the WEF, an organization well-known for hosting worldwide economic leaders and thinkers at its annual summit in Davos. Brende, who was Norway's Foreign Minister between 2013 and 2017, expressed his decision to step down was made 'after careful consideration,' highlighting a need for the organization to move forward 'without distractions.' Despite the controversy, Brende affirmed his commitment to the Forum's values and praised the dedication and cooperative spirit of his colleagues. His tenure came into contention when documents revealed meetings and exchanges between himself and Epstein, raising eyebrows in light of Epstein's criminal history. Brende refrained from directly addressing these allegations in his departure statement. However, an internal review by the WEF, led by external legal counsel, had been initiated to probe the nature of Brende's interactions with Epstein. According to Brende, all meetings were conducted under business pretenses, and he was unaware of Epstein's illegal activities at the time. The review concluded with findings that showed no causes for additional alarm beyond what had previously surfaced. Meanwhile, the positions held by Brende will temporarily be filled by Alois Zwinggi, who steps in as interim president and CEO. The co-chairs of the WEF, André Hoffmann and Larry Fink, endorsed the integrity of the investigative process and stressed their commitment to transparency within the global economic sphere. As the WEF navigates this transitional phase, attention will be directed toward maintaining its role as a platform for global economic discourse, free from controversies that might cloud its mission.