The World Economic Forum (WEF), the international organisation recognised for organising the annual Davos gathering of global leaders, has initiated an independent review involving its President and Chief Executive Officer, Børge Brende. The review is linked to Brende’s previous contact with convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein, whose criminal history and controversial connections have drawn scrutiny across global institutions.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the World Economic Forum serves as a major platform for dialogue between political leaders, corporate executives, academics, and policy experts. Because of its global reputation and influence, concerns connected to senior leadership have triggered a formal internal response aimed at maintaining credibility and public confidence.
Reasons Behind the Independent Review
The internal review was launched after information shared by authorities in the United States indicated that Børge Brende attended three business dinners where Jeffrey Epstein was also present. Reports also pointed to limited communication between the two through emails and text messages. Following the disclosures, the World Economic Forum’s governing leadership initiated a closer evaluation of the matter.
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According to the organisation, the responsibility for examining the issue was given to its Audit and Risk Committee. After studying preliminary details, the committee appointed external legal specialists to conduct a comprehensive and impartial assessment. The Forum emphasised that such steps reflect its long-standing commitment to ethical governance and transparency.
The World Economic Forum explained that safeguarding institutional trust is critical because of its role in shaping global discussions on economic development, technological innovation, and climate policy. As a result, the organisation regularly reviews situations that may influence its reputation or stakeholder confidence.
Response from Børge Brende and Details of the Meetings
Børge Brende has expressed full support for the investigation and reportedly requested that the review be carried out in order to clarify the circumstances surrounding the meetings. According to official statements, the first dinner involving Epstein occurred in New York in 2018, with the invitation reportedly extended through diplomatic channels.
Two additional gatherings reportedly took place in 2019 and were attended by diplomats, industry leaders, and other senior professionals. Brende stated that outside of these dinners, his interaction with Epstein remained limited to a small number of electronic communications.
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Brende further stated that he was unaware of Epstein’s criminal background at the time of the meetings. He acknowledged that stronger background verification could have been conducted and said the invitations would not have been accepted if the financier’s past had been fully known. The World Economic Forum confirmed that Brende will continue his leadership duties during the ongoing investigation while independent legal counsel completes its review.
Focus on Ethical Governance and Institutional Credibility
The World Economic Forum highlighted that initiating the review demonstrates its dedication to maintaining transparency and strong ethical standards. As an organisation that convenes global leaders to address international challenges, it considers public and institutional trust essential to its mission.
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The Forum stated that its governing structure includes strict professional conduct guidelines, and any concerns related to organisational integrity are carefully evaluated. The review will analyse meeting records, communication details, and internal compliance procedures to determine whether World Economic Forum policies were followed.
The situation has also raised broader questions about due diligence standards within global institutions that frequently engage with high-profile individuals. The World Economic Forum reiterated that it remains committed to cooperating fully with the independent legal review while continuing its global policy and economic engagement initiatives.
