Børge Brende has announced his resignation as the president of the World Economic Forum (WEF) following the release of documents by the U.S. Department of Justice. These documents reveal that Brende had three business dinners with Jeffrey Epstein and had communicated with the disgraced financier through emails and text messages. This connection has raised significant concerns given Epstein's criminal background and the implications it holds for Brende’s leadership role at WEF.

In an official statement, Brende expressed gratitude for his time at WEF, where he served since 2017, highlighting the fulfilling experiences he gained over his eight-and-a-half years in leadership. He stated that after careful consideration, he believes it is the right moment for the Forum to continue its essential work without distractions, suggesting that his resignation is a step towards maintaining the integrity of the organization.

The timing of Brende's resignation comes at a critical juncture for the WEF, which plays a significant role in global economic discussions and policy-making. As the organization faces increasing scrutiny over its leadership and affiliations, Brende's exit may ripple through its operations and public perception, particularly in the context of ethical accountability in leadership positions.