Børge Brende, president of the World Economic Forum (WEF/Davos Forum), has resigned, Reuters reported on the 26th local time. It comes about three weeks after the WEF launched its own investigation into his interactions with U.S. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who died in 2019.
Brende said, "After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as WEF president and chief executive officer (CEO)," adding, "I believe it is time for the Davos Forum to continue its important work without distraction."
However, Brende did not state his position regarding Epstein. Previously, the U.S. Department of Justice released "Epstein files" that said Brende attended three business dinners with Epstein and later exchanged emails and text messages.
The WEF's internal investigation found nothing beyond what the U.S. Department of Justice made public.
Brende, a former Norwegian foreign minister, has served as WEF president and CEO since 2017.
Director Alois Zwinggi will serve as acting WEF president and CEO. The WEF said its board plans to begin procedures to search for a successor.