Børge Brende
World Economic Forum CEO resigns over Epstein links
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Børge Brende announced his resignation as president of the World Economic Forum, the organizer of the annual Davos summit, following revelations of his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The former Norwegian foreign minister said in a statement, “After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as president and CEO of the World Economic Forum.”
Brende described his eight-and-a-half-year tenure as “very fruitful,” adding that he believes “the time has come for the Forum to continue its important work free from any distractions.”
Independent review and interim management
Earlier this month, the World Economic Forum said it would conduct an independent review of Brende’s ties to Epstein after his name appeared multiple times in millions of documents related to the convicted financier released by the US Department of Justice. The forum noted that appearing in these documents does not imply wrongdoing.
The review concluded Thursday, stating that “the findings raised no additional concerns beyond what was previously disclosed.” The organization expressed appreciation for Brende’s contributions and confirmed that it respects his decision to step down.
Alois Zwinggi was appointed interim CEO while the board begins the search for a permanent successor.
Brende’s explanation and Epstein context
Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 to sexually exploiting a minor, serving 13 months of an 18-month sentence, and faced sex trafficking accusations before his death in prison in 2019.
Brende previously stated that during a 2018 visit to New York, he received a dinner invitation from former Norwegian Deputy Prime Minister Tore Rod-Larsen that included Epstein, who was introduced to him as an American investor. He attended two similar dinners with Epstein the following year, alongside diplomats and business figures.
Brende said his interactions were limited to these dinners and a few emails and text messages. He added that he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal history and that, had he known, he would have declined the initial and subsequent invitations.
He expressed regret that he did not conduct a more thorough review of Epstein’s past.
