At the World Economic Forum (WEF) on 21 January 2025, a high-level panel discussion titled “Data for all and everyone – is this the solution to combat misinformation?” underscored the critical importance of trusted data in today’s information landscape. The event, part of Geneva Day 2025, brought together representatives from international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and academia to explore how reliable data can combat misinformation and promote fact-based decision-making.

The study presented during the panel proposed the creation of a Geneva-based Trusted Data Observatory, which would develop a metadata platform to list and compare trusted data sources. This platform, designed to support AI tools in generating responses from verified data, aims to enhance transparency and provide the foundation for fact-based political decisions while actively countering misinformation.

For compliance professionals, the significance of trusted data cannot be overstated. Reliable information is the bedrock of transparent operations, ethical decision-making, and effective risk management. Initiatives like the Trusted Data Observatory emphasize the growing need for organizations to prioritize the accuracy and integrity of their data sources, particularly in sectors subject to stringent regulatory requirements. Integrating AI tools into compliance workflows, as suggested by the study, could further streamline the monitoring of legal frameworks and improve adherence to regulatory standards.

Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider, who launched the discussion, highlighted the societal implications of trusted data, noting its role in supporting democratic debate and informed decision-making. This message resonates with compliance practitioners, for whom reliable information is not just a tool for meeting regulatory obligations but also a means of fostering public trust and organizational accountability.

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, where misinformation poses significant risks, trusted data emerges as a strategic asset. By adopting principles that prioritize transparency, accuracy, and ethical data usage, compliance professionals can build robust frameworks that align with both organizational goals and societal expectations. The insights from the WEF discussion provide a valuable roadmap for navigating the challenges and opportunities of compliance in the digital age.

References:

– Federal Statistical Office (2025). “What is the value of trusted data? Panel discussion at the World Economic Forum.” (https://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/en/home.assetdetail.33807137.html)