Davos Forum Launches Independent Review of CEO Borge Brende's Epstein Connections
The World Economic Forum (WEF), the organization behind the prestigious Davos summit, announced on Thursday that it will conduct an independent review into its chief executive's interactions with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This decision comes in response to recent disclosures that have raised questions about the forum's leadership and its commitment to ethical standards.
Brende's Name Appears in Newly Released Epstein Documents
Borge Brende, the 60-year-old former Norwegian foreign minister who has served as president of the WEF since 2017, was mentioned more than 60 times in the millions of new Epstein documents released last week by the U.S. Justice Department. While appearing in these files does not automatically imply wrongdoing, the frequency of mentions has prompted the forum to seek clarification.
The Geneva-based organization stated: "The WEF seeks to clarify recent disclosures regarding its president and CEO, Borge Brende, and his participating in three business dinners with Jeffrey Epstein, along with subsequent email and SMS communications."
Independent Review Process Initiated
In light of these interactions, the WEF's governing board requested the audit and risk committee to investigate the matter. The committee subsequently decided to initiate an independent review to examine the nature and extent of Brende's connections with Epstein.
The forum emphasized its commitment to transparency, stating that it aims to handle the matter thoughtfully and efficiently. Brende will continue to fulfill his roles at the WEF but will not be involved in the review process to ensure its independence and objectivity.
Brende's Statement on the Epstein Interactions
In a detailed statement, Brende explained that during a visit to New York in 2018, he received an invitation for former Norwegian deputy prime minister Terje Rod-Larsen to join him for dinner with several other leaders. At this dinner, he was introduced to "someone who was presented to me as an American investor, Jeffrey Epstein."
Brende acknowledged attending two similar dinners with Epstein the following year, alongside other diplomats and business leaders. He described these dinners, along with a few emails and SMS messages, as the extent of his interactions with Epstein.
"I was completely unaware of Epstein's past and criminal activities," Brende stated. "Had I known about Epstein's background, I would have declined the initial invitation for dinner and any other subsequent invitations or communications."
He expressed regret for not conducting a more thorough investigation into Epstein's history and welcomed the independent review, noting that he had indeed requested it himself.
Background on Jeffrey Epstein's Criminal History
Jeffrey Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008 to procuring a child for prostitution and served 13 months of an 18-month sentence. He was facing charges of alleged sex trafficking when he died by suicide in detention in 2019. The release of documents related to his case has continued to reveal connections with various high-profile individuals across different sectors.
The World Economic Forum, known for organizing the annual gathering of global elites in the Swiss ski resort of Davos, now faces scrutiny over how its leadership navigates relationships with controversial figures. This independent review represents a significant step in addressing these concerns and maintaining the forum's reputation as a platform for responsible global dialogue.
