There has been a commotion over an advertisement seeking hostesses for the upcoming World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos. It specifically looks for blondes who are taller than 1.70 meters and have “a lot of charisma”. The WEF distances itself from the advertisement, which was drawn up by a Swiss company.
While final preparations are being made for the meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, during the week of January 16-20, the Swiss company BNL Clean Energie is still looking for six hostesses to welcome and assist guests at that WEF . But the way in which that is done is an uproar for a lot of people.
The advertisement is therefore very clearly looking for one specific type of hostess. “We are looking for professional blonde hostesses,” it reads. The candidates must be between 18 and 26 years old, be at least 1.70 meters tall and “be able to represent our company well”. A “pleasant and friendly charisma” is required, it says, and candidates should not be shy when approaching people. They receive 150 euros per day plus expenses, flight and meals.
“So much for women’s rights and #MeToo”, writes the Swiss blogger who calls himself ‘Russian market’ on Twitter. “This is unbelievable.” Other observers also label the ad as “sexist”. The Swiss Blick brought the matter to light and was told by the company behind the ad that it knows nothing about it. It would have been posted by a company in Germany that works for them. It is remarkable that the ad was removed very quickly after the call. The WEF itself distances itself completely from the advertisement.