WEF President Børge Brende Resigns After Reports of Contacts With Jeffrey Epstein

Børge Brende, President and Chief Executive Officer of the World Economic Forum (WEF), resigned on Thursday following reports that he had exchanged emails and text messages with convicted culprit Jeffrey Epstein.

Although Epstein’s name was not mentioned in Brende’s resignation letter, the decision came after details of their past communications became public.

In a joint statement, WEF Vice Chairman André Hoffmann and Board Member Larry Fink announced that Alois Zwinggi will serve as interim President and CEO.

Brende, who has led the WEF since 2017, said the U.S. Department of Justice had disclosed that he attended three business dinners with Epstein and exchanged emails and text messages with him. Following the release of that information, Brende decided to step down.

“After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as President and CEO of the World Economic Forum,” Brende said in a statement. “The past eight and a half years have been deeply rewarding.”

He added, “I am grateful for the outstanding cooperation with colleagues, partners, and all stakeholders. I believe this is the right time to ensure the Forum can continue its important work without distraction.”

Brende did not mention Epstein by name in his statement.

Hoffmann and Fink said that an independent investigation, led by external legal counsel, had been completed regarding Brende’s past interactions with Epstein.

The resignation marks a significant leadership change at the World Economic Forum, which convenes global political and business leaders annually in Davos and plays a prominent role in shaping discussions on global economic policy.