World’s First AI Minister Appointed to Tackle Corruption in Albania

Albania has introduced AI Minister Diela to curb corruption, ensuring transparency in government contracts. Diela was earlier a digital assistant. The country seeks EU membership, making the fight against organized crime and corruption vital. However, the opposition has raised concerns over the AI minister’s role.

Albania Appoints the First AI Minister Globally

Artificial Intelligence is expanding rapidly across industries, and now it has entered politics and governance. Albania has become the first country to appoint a virtual AI minister to fight corruption within the government. The newly introduced minister is named Diela, which translates to “Sun” in Albanian.

Prime Minister Edi Rama explained that “Diela will serve as a cabinet member who does not exist physically but has been created virtually.” The AI-generated minister will play a crucial role in ensuring that government contracts remain completely corruption-free. According to officials, this innovation will allow the administration to operate with maximum transparency. The National Agency for Information Society stated on its website that Diela uses updated AI models and techniques to fulfill her responsibilities.

From Digital Assistant to Virtual Minister

Diela was first introduced in January as an AI-powered digital assistant. She was designed as a woman dressed in traditional Albanian attire and aimed at helping citizens navigate the official e-Albania platform. The platform provides access to multiple government services and official documents.

Since her launch, Diela has facilitated the issuance of more than 36,600 digital documents and delivered around 1,000 online services. Her contribution highlights the efficiency of AI in improving digital governance. Albania has faced repeated corruption scandals in public contracts, and experts note that the country has also become a key hub for international criminals laundering money from drug and arms trafficking. Corruption has reportedly reached the highest levels of the government, further intensifying the need for reform.

Is There a Constitutional Provision for an AI Minister?

Prime Minister Rama, who secured victory for the fourth consecutive term, is preparing to present his new cabinet in parliament. President Bajram Begaj has tasked him with forming the next government. When journalists questioned whether the appointment of an AI minister violates constitutional provisions, the President avoided giving a direct response.

Rama’s Socialist Party won 83 out of 140 seats in the May 11 elections, securing another term in power. The party can govern independently and pass most laws. However, constitutional amendments require at least 93 seats.

EU Membership Push and the Role of Corruption Control

The Socialist Party has promised that Albania could gain European Union membership within the next five years. Officials expressed confidence that negotiations would conclude by 2027. Yet, opposition Democrats argue that Albania is still not ready for accession.

Talks on Albania’s EU membership began a year ago. For the new government, tackling organized crime and corruption is crucial, as both have plagued the country since the fall of communist rule in 1990. Anti-corruption measures are now seen as a central part of Albania’s efforts to secure a place in the European Union.