Data for all and everyone – is this the solution to combat misinformation?

Today, data is a dime a dozen. However, the quality of the data often leaves a lot to be desired. Access to data is also not guaranteed and is currently uncoordinated. It is known that harmonized and standardized data would help to combat misinformation and provide science with a tool for research. Finding the correct information is not always easy. Switzerland, in cooperation with various international actors, including with the government of Rwanda, is examining the development of a global metadata platform or Trusted Data Observatory, based in Geneva. Thus, “trusted data” would be findable and accessible to users including for AI tools (such as ChatGPT) in a harmonized and standardized way. Is this the solution to combat misinformation? 

This event will take place as part of the Unlocking the Power of Data Initiative. It builds on the discussions at the House of Switzerland over the past two years, but also on the discussions at the 5th UN World Data Forum, which took place in Colombia in November 2024. 

Welcome speech
- Jonas Pasquier, Permanent Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations and to the other international organizations in Geneva
- Nathalie Fontanet, President of the Cantonal Council of Geneva
- Elisabeth Baume-Schneider, Federal Councillor, head of the Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA)

Setting the scene
Vincent F Hendricks, Professor, Director at the Center for Information and Bubble Studies, University of Copenhagen

Podium speakers
- Pádraig Dalton, former Chief Statistician of Ireland
- Samira Asma, Assistant Director-General for Data, Analytics and Delivery, World Health Organization
- Georges-Simon Ulrich, Director General of the Swiss Federal Statistical Office and Chair of the UN Statistical Commission

Moderation
Benjamin Rothen, Ambassador, Head International and National affairs, Swiss Federal Statistical Office

Contact for information & event registration
Unlocking the Power of Data Initiative:
upd-initiative@bfs.admin.ch

Person for media requests 
Pascal Blickle
International Affairs Officer
pascal.blickle@bfs.admin.ch
+41 79 543 75 69