Albania Appoints AI Virtual Assistant as Government Minister
Albania has promoted its AI-powered virtual assistant, Diella, to a ministerial position. Diella is now one of the world’s first AI politicians. Previously, Diella helped citizens on the e-Albania platform. Prime Minister Edi Rama said the AI’s role is to keep the country “100% free of corruption.”
Rama announced this change during a Socialist Party National Assembly session on Thursday. Diella is the first cabinet member who exists only virtually. The AI will oversee government procurement of goods and services. This sector has faced corruption scandals in Albania for decades.
Before this, Diella assisted citizens and businesses with documents like driver’s licenses, pension applications, and court filings. It used voice commands and electronic stamps to speed up processes and reduce bureaucracy.
Rama has not shared details on how Diella’s new role will work. He did not clarify who will be responsible for AI errors or how human oversight will be managed. There are also no disclosed measures to prevent system manipulation.
AI Bots Increasingly Used in Governments Worldwide
Diella’s appointment marks a significant step for AI in government roles. AI is gaining traction globally in public administration.
- On May 1, 2024, Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs introduced “Victoria Shi,” an AI spokesperson for foreign affairs updates.
- On April 18, 2024, the UAE launched its first integrated regulatory AI ecosystem, approved by Vice President HH Sheikh Mohammed.
Albania’s EU Membership and Anti-Corruption Efforts
Corruption remains a major obstacle to Albania’s EU membership. The country has been an EU candidate since 2014 but has not yet joined. Prime Minister Rama expressed hope that Albania could become a member by 2030.
