Published：Feb 26, 11:26Last updated：Feb 27, 04:04

WEF President Børge Brende Resigns Amid Epstein Scandal and Leadership Scrutiny

Feb. 26, 2026 11:26

Børge Brende resigns from his position as WEF president following public disclosures of his contact with Jeffrey Epstein. His departure aims to protect the organization's image, announced on February 26, 2026.

Summarized

28News

21Media

Feb. 27, 2026 00:30

Jeffrey Epstein corresponded with former head of the Davos World Economic Forum, Berge Brende, about strengthening Davos's role as a platform instead of the UN. The discussion took place before Brende's resignation, and the topic involves the potential influence of Davos in global affairs. The news was reported on February 27, 2026, and includes related images.

Feb. 27, 2026 04:04

Børge Brende announced his resignation as President and CEO of the World Economic Forum on February 26, citing the need to ensure the forum's uninterrupted work. He expressed regret over his interactions with Jeffrey Epstein, including dinners and communications, and stated that an independent review was underway. The Forum's statement did not mention Epstein, but Brende apologized for his handling of the matter, which involved allegations of misconduct and legal issues related to Epstein.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) is under heightened global scrutiny following the resignation of its president and CEO, Børge Brende, on February 26, 2026. Brende’s departure comes after revelations about his contacts and communications with Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier charged with sex crimes involving minors. The controversy, fueled by newly released documents and media reports, led to an independent investigation and mounting public pressure, prompting Brende to step down to ensure the forum’s continued work and credibility. Huanqiu+2

🏛️ Leadership Turmoil and Immediate Transition

Brende, who had led the WEF for over eight years, announced his resignation in Geneva, citing the need for an “undisturbed continuation” of the forum’s mission. The WEF board expressed respect and gratitude for his service, and an interim leader has been appointed while a search for a permanent successor is underway. Brende’s resignation follows the earlier departure of Klaus Schwab as chair, also amid Epstein-related scrutiny, highlighting a period of significant leadership upheaval at the organization. Mainichi Shimbun+2

🔍 Epstein Connections: Dinners, Communications, and Investigations

The scandal centers on Brende’s documented dinners and correspondence with Epstein, as revealed in recently released Epstein documents. Brende claimed he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal history during their interactions. The WEF conducted an independent internal review, which found no evidence of additional misconduct or undisclosed meetings. However, the exposure of these contacts, including discussions about strengthening Davos’s global role, intensified the backlash and led to calls for accountability. RIA Novosti+2

🌐 Reputational Fallout and Forum’s Future

Brende’s resignation has intensified debate over the WEF’s governance standards and its ability to maintain trust among global stakeholders. The forum has pledged to uphold transparency and ethical leadership, emphasizing its commitment to its annual Davos summit and broader global agenda. The leadership transition occurs at a critical moment, as the WEF seeks to restore its reputation and address the damage caused by the Epstein revelations and associated resignations. France 24+2

DavosSwitzerlandBørge BrendeJeffrey EpsteinWorld Economic Forum