Borge Brende has stepped down as President and CEO of the World Economic Forum following an independent review into his past contacts with Jeffrey Epstein.
Disclosures from the US Justice Department showed Brende attended three business dinners with Epstein. He also exchanged emails and text messages with him. The Forum launched an investigation earlier this month to clarify the nature of those interactions.
In a statement on Thursday, Brende said he decided to step down after careful consideration. He described his eight-and-a-half years at the Forum as deeply rewarding. He added that this was the right moment for the organisation to continue its work without distractions. He did not mention Epstein directly in his statement.
The Forum said outside counsel completed the independent review. The findings reported no concerns beyond those already disclosed.
Co-chairs Andre Hoffmann and Larry Fink confirmed the review had concluded. They announced that Alois Zwinggi will serve as interim president and CEO. The Board of Trustees will oversee the transition and begin the search for a permanent successor.
