Børge Brende has stepped down from his position as president and CEO of the World Economic Forum, which is known for hosting the annual economic summit in Davos, Switzerland. His resignation comes after it was revealed that he had had contact with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender whose connections with influential figures raised numerous concerns. In a statement, Brende expressed that after careful consideration, he decided to resign after an 8.5-year tenure that he described as rewarding.

Brende, who has held the CEO position since 2017, is a former Norwegian foreign minister affiliated with the Conservative Party (Høyre). His involvement with Epstein, despite likely being part of networking within high-profile circles, has prompted significant scrutiny, especially considering Epstein's notorious history. Brende's decision illustrates the increased accountability that public figures face regarding their associations and the potential ramifications on their careers and organizations they represent.

The implications of Brende's resignation point to a broader issue regarding the relationships leaders in global institutions maintain and how these relationships can impact their roles. The World Economic Forum, which gathers the elite of business, politics, and civil society, now faces questions about its leadership and transparency. This incident could provoke further discussions about ethical conduct and governance within international forums and the profiles of individuals being associated with influential gatherings, particularly in light of Epstein's legacy.