Mass Harassment and Discrimination at Davos Forum: Wall Street Journal

The employees of the Davos World Economic Forum are facing an environment that is hostile towards women and people of color. This is reported by The Wall Street Journal, citing complaints, correspondence, and interviews with 80 former and current employees who have worked there since the 1980s.

At least six employees have lost their jobs upon returning from pregnancy or maternity leave. Another six stated that they experienced sexual harassment from senior executives, some of whom still work within the organization. Several other employees reported being aware of the behavior of forum founder Klaus Schwab. Additionally, recently, employees have lodged complaints against forum managers who have used offensive remarks towards people of color.

The forum’s press service has declined to allow the WSJ to interview Schwab. A foundation representative stated that the newspaper's story "mischaracterizes the organization, its culture, and its partners, including the founder," and denied allegations of bias against women and seniors.

At the end of May, Schwab announced to employees that he would remain as the non-executive chairman of the board. Schwab also reached out to the editor-in-chief of the Wall Street Journal to express concerns about the content of the article.