The president of the World Economic Forum is stepping down: what is known about his ties to Epstein
27 February 04:02
Berge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum (WEF), announced his resignation after the US Department of Justice released documents about his contacts with convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein. This was reported on the official website of the WEF, as well as by Reuters, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
What caused the resignation
According to materials released by the US Department of Justice, Brende:
- met with Epstein three times at business dinners in 2018–2019;
- maintained email correspondence with him;
- contacted him after Epstein had been found guilty of sex crimes.
After the internal investigation began, Brende stated:
“After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as President and CEO of the World Economic Forum.”
Results of the WEF audit
WEF co-chairs André Hoffmann and Larry Fink reported that the independent review did not reveal any new violations beyond the already known facts of contact.
The Board of Trustees has begun the process of searching for a new permanent leader. Alois Zwinggi will temporarily assume the duties of president and CEO.
Wave of resignations over the “Epstein files”
Brende’s resignation was part of a broader international response to the publication of the so-called “Epstein files.”
The following individuals had previously left their positions:
- Catherine Rummler, chief legal counsel at Goldman Sachs;
- Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, head of DP World;
- Thomas Pritzker — Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hyatt Hotels Corporation.
On February 19, Prince Andrew was also detained in the UK as part of an investigation into his contacts with Epstein.
On January 30, the US Department of Justice published a final package of documents containing thousands of materials related to the financier’s case.
What this means for the Davos Forum
The World Economic Forum is one of the key global platforms for dialogue between politicians, business, and international organizations. The resignation of its long-time leader could affect the forum’s reputation and its management reforms.
Berge Brende has headed the WEF since 2017.
