Børge Brende, the head of the World Economic Forum (WEF), has announced his resignation amid increasing pressure due to his connections with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Brende, who previously served as Norway's foreign minister from 2013 to 2017, emphasized that he made the decision after careful consideration and believes it is in the best interest of the Forum to continue its important work without distractions. This decision comes at a critical time for the WEF, known for its influential annual summit in Davos, Switzerland.

The scrutiny surrounding Brende's connections to Epstein intensified following the release of new files related to Epstein's offenses. Although Brende did not directly address the controversy in his resignation announcement, the WEF disclosed earlier that month its plans to conduct an internal review of the organization's links to Epstein. The situation is significant not only for Brende but also for the WEF, as it impacts the organization's reputation and its ability to function effectively amid ongoing controversies.

Brende expressed gratitude toward his colleagues and partners, highlighting the collaborative nature of his role at the WEF. His resignation raises questions about future leadership in the organization and the potential for further changes as it confronts the implications of Epstein's legacy. This event marks a pivotal moment for the WEF as it seeks to reassure stakeholders and the public about its commitment to ethical standards and accountability within its ranks.