World Economic Forum President Borge Brende shocked global circles today by resigning after newly disclosed documents revealed his past communications with convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein. The move comes just weeks after the U.S. Department of Justice released Epstein-related records in late January 2026.
🔍 What we know: – Brende had 3 business dinners with Epstein between 2014-2016 – Maintained email/text contact through 2017 – WEF launched independent probe on Feb. 5 – Swiss investigators found 'no new issues' beyond known facts
In his farewell statement, Brende called his 9-year leadership "profoundly rewarding" but said stepping down now allows the organization to focus without distractions. The Davos-based forum has appointed board member Alois Zwinggi as interim CEO.
💡 Why it matters: This marks the first major leadership shakeup since the 2026 Davos meetings, where climate tech and AI governance dominated discussions. With Zwinggi at the helm, all eyes are on whether the WEF can maintain its influence amid growing public scrutiny of elite networks.
