In Europe, two trends are quietly reshaping how European organisations build resilience through AI: Synthetic data and executive AI literacy. In 2025, navigating disruption isn’t just about adopting technology; it’s about understanding, adapting and leading with clarity.
Synthetic Data: Navigating Privacy and Regulation Responsibly
Synthetic data is generated data that mirrors the structure and statistical properties of real-world datasets, without exposing personal information. The European Data Protection Supervisor emphasises that synthetic datasets can preserve privacy, avoid identifying individuals, and may reduce the need for real data; ideally suited to GDPR-compliant AI development. TechRadar
Its value goes beyond privacy. TechRadar describes synthetic data as instrumental in building resilient organisations. It provides “privacy-compliant, scalable, regulation-friendly alternatives” to real data, especially vital as firms grapple with data sovereignty and legal constraints.
In autonomous systems or crisis simulations, like supply chain disruptions or cybersecurity threats, synthetic data enables test environments that are safe yet realistic, without compromising customer data. WebProNews
However, synthetic data is not foolproof. Its effectiveness hinges on metadata transparency; leaders must understand data lineage, generation assumptions and coverage limitations, or risk training models on flawed foundations.
Executive AI Literacy: The Leadership Imperative
Synthetic data is only as effective as the leaders deploying it. Executive AI literacy, a strategic understanding of AI’s possibilities and pitfalls, is now non-negotiable.
A recent overview by TechRadar outlines how executives fluent in AI can align AI agents and synthetic data responsibly with organisational goals, ensuring regulatory compliance and ethical oversight.
Gartner similarly defines AI literacy not as technical expertise, but as the ability to use AI logically and responsibly; aligning the technology with business objectives rather than treating it as mere novelty. gartner.com
European regulators are recognising the need for AI literacy at scale. The EU’s AI Continent Action Plan, launched in April 2025, includes establishing an AI Skills Academy, boosting AI training and raising literacy among citizens and professionals. EU
Something we’re offering at scale for free with NORAI Connect, as well.
Why These Elements Matter Together
The synergy between synthetic data and executive AI literacy creates resilience:
Synthetic data provides the fuel – enabling safe, scalable, regulation-aware AI model development where real data is constrained.
Executive AI literacy applies directional control – steering AI use with prudence, aligning it with strategic goals, and embedding governance.
Together, they empower adaptive, secure AI systems; even amid shifting regulations, geopolitical tensions, or technological instability.
What European Leaders Should Do Now
Pilot synthetic data use responsibly. Start with critical, regulated areas like finance or healthcare to test models without risking personal data.
Invest in leadership training. Engage senior teams in immersive programs on synthetic data governance, AI risk, and regulation; not just vendor pitch decks.
Govern data and metadata. Set standards for synthetic data provenance, limitations, bias documentation and lineage to ensure reliability.
Link AI strategy to resilience planning. Use synthetic scenarios (like simulated disruptions) to test operational robustness with AI agents.
Engage with EU initiatives. Explore local Digital Innovation Hubs, AI Skills Academy programmes, and industry consortia to build literacy at scale.
- Leverage NORAI Connect. A world-class free AI education portal you can use to upskill your entire staff with AI Fundamentals and Prompt Engineering.
Final Thought
Real resilience isn’t built by chasing the latest AI toolkit. It’s achieved by grounding AI in responsible data practices and empowered leadership.
Synthetic data gives us safer paths into AI, while executive AI literacy ensures those paths serve strategy, not hype. For European firms navigating uncertainty, that’s exactly where leadership needs to be.
Victor A. Lausas
Chief Executive Officer
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