Why did Borge Brende resign from the WEF?

He resigned after renewed scrutiny of his contacts with Jeffrey Epstein, highlighted by media coverage of the Epstein files. The WEF announced the leadership change and named an interim to ensure continuity. For investors, the key takeaway is heightened focus on governance, ethics policies, and partner vetting around Davos activities.

Who is Alois Zwinggi and what is his interim role?

Alois Zwinggi was appointed interim leader to stabilize operations while the WEF conducts a search for a permanent successor. His priority is continuity across planning cycles, sponsor relations, and program approvals for Davos 2026. Companies should expect existing timelines to hold unless the WEF releases updated guidance.

How could this affect Davos 2026 access for Swiss companies?

Expect tighter review of speakers, side events, and private sessions. Build contingency plans, confirm deadlines in writing, and prepare alternative panels. Strengthen compliance files and guest screening. The change should not halt planning, but it may slow approvals or raise documentation requirements that shape who gets into high‑level rooms.

What are the key investor watchpoints after the WEF leadership change?

Monitor WEF statements on governance and the leadership search, sponsorship contract terms, and booking trends in Davos. Stress‑test ROI from WEF spend against confirmed access and media outcomes. Keep auditable records of engagements with public officials. These steps reduce reputational risk while preserving policy access in Switzerland.

Law and Government

WEF Shake-Up February 27: Borge Brende Resigns Over Epstein Links

ByDanny Kontos February 27, 2026

The Borge Brende resignation from the World Economic Forum on 27 February 2026 marks a major WEF leadership change with direct implications for Switzerland. Brende stepped down after scrutiny linked to Epstein files, and Alois Zwinggi was named interim leader. For Swiss companies that plan Davos 2026, this development affects policy access, sponsorship calculus, and compliance planning. We outline what changed, why it matters for stakeholder engagement, and how investors can assess exposure in Switzerland. Our goal is clear guidance, not noise, for the weeks ahead.