World Economic Forum founder Klaus Schwab allegedly manipulated the organisation’s research to curry favour with governments, according to whistleblower claims that led to his resignation as chair of the organisation over the Easter weekend.

The World Economic Forum says its board has given unanimous support for an independent investigation into allegations of misconduct by founder Klaus Schwab.

Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum, whose annual gathering of business and political leaders in the Swiss mountain resort of Davos became a symbol of globalisation, has resigned as chair of its trustees.