"After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as chairman and CEO of the World Economic Forum. My 8.5 years here have been incredibly meaningful. I am grateful for the excellent collaboration of my colleagues, partners, and stakeholders. I also believe this is the right time for the forum to continue its important work without interruption", he stated.

This decision comes weeks after the WEF launched an independent investigation into his relationship with pedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein. However, Brende's announcement did not mention Epstein.

WEF chairman Borge Brende at the World Economic Forum in Davos in 1/2025. Photo: Reuters

Previously, the US Justice Department released documents showing Brende had three business dinners with Epstein and exchanged emails and messages with him. Brende, a former Norwegian foreign minister, assumed the role of WEF chairman in 2017.

Epstein was arrested and died by suicide in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on charges of sex trafficking and child sexual abuse. The billionaire was previously tried by a Florida state court in 2008 on prostitution charges but reached a plea deal that helped him avoid a life sentence, resulting in only 13 months in prison along with financial compensation for victims.

On 31/1, the US Justice Department released three million pages of documents, photos, and videos related to the Epstein investigations. These files mentioned additional information concerning prominent politicians, royal family members, and wealthy businesspeople.

On 26/2, the WEF also announced that the independent review conducted by external counsel regarding Brende's relationship with Epstein had been completed. The investigation found no issues beyond what had been previously disclosed.

Alois Zwinggi, a WEF leader, will serve as interim chairman and chief executive officer. The forum's Board of Trustees will oversee the transition and plan for an official successor.

Ha Thu (according to Reuters)