World Economic Forum chief Borge Brende quits amid mounting Epstein scrutiny
Times of India
by TOI BUSINESS DESKFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
World Economic Forum (WEF) President and CEO Borge Brende has stepped down amid an independent review into his past interactions with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The decision came after the U.S. Justice Department revealed that Brende had three business dinners with Epstein and exchanged emails and texts with him. Brende, who led the WEF since 2017, announced his resignation in a statement, emphasizing that he believed it was the right time for the organization to focus on its work without distractions.
The independent review, conducted by external counsel, concluded that while there were no additional concerns beyond what had already been disclosed, Brende’s ties to Epstein remained a significant issue. The WEF co-chairs, Andre Hoffmann and Larry Fink, confirmed the findings in a separate statement, appointing Alois Zwinggi as interim president and CEO. The Board of Trustees will oversee the leadership transition and initiate a search for a permanent successor.
Brende’s resignation raises questions about the broader implications for the WEF, particularly its reputation and ability to maintain trust among global leaders. The organization, which hosts the annual Davos summit, has long been a key platform for addressing critical global issues. The scrutiny surrounding Epstein’s influence highlights the challenges organizations face in managing relationships with controversial figures and maintaining public credibility.
This development also underscores the growing focus on accountability in international business and political circles. As details of Brende’s past interactions with Epstein came to light, it prompted a reassessment of the WEF’s leadership and its commitment to ethical standards. The outcome of this transition will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how similar organizations handle scandals involving high-profile individuals.
Overall, the situation highlights the delicate balance between diplomacy, business, and ethics in global organizations like the WEF. While the review found no further wrongdoing on Brende’s part beyond his association with Epstein, the optics of such ties can be damaging to an institution’s reputation. The WEF will need to navigate this transition carefully to maintain its role as a trusted platform for addressing global challenges.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/26/2026