Diella the AI Minister: Albania's Bold Experiment Against Corruption
Albania has made history by appointing the world's first AI-powered minister.
The new digital chief, named "diella," has been tasked with overseeing public procurement, one of the most corruption-prone areas. Prime Minister Edi Rama announced the move at a party conference, saying it was not a show-off, but a serious step to enhance transparency and rebuild public trust.
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Diella is already known to many Albanians through the e-Albania platform, which helps citizens access documents and services using voice commands. Now, her role is expanding to include monitoring government tenders, analyzing data, and detecting violations in real time. Rama says she cannot be bribed, has no political allegiances, and will apply the same rules to everyone.
The idea has garnered global attention, but it also raises significant questions. Experts point out that while AI cannot accept bribes, it can still be biased or manipulated through the data and settings it relies on. Others warn that if the system makes a mistake or withholds a valid contract, there is no clear process for accountability. Who is responsible for AI decisions when billions of public funds are at stake?