Albania introduces an AI-driven minister to oversee public procurement, ensuring resistance to bribes or favoritism. Known as Diella, this AI bot is tasked with managing and awarding government contracts to private firms for diverse projects.
Prime Minister Edi Rama, embarking on his fourth term, announced on Thursday that Diella, meaning “sun” in Albanian, is the first AI-generated cabinet member. She aims to transform Albania into a nation where public tenders are entirely corruption-free. Historically, such contracts have been a hotbed of corruption in this Balkan country, notorious for its involvement in global drug and arms trafficking, and pervasive corruption.
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Albania’s reputation has hindered its bid to join the European Union by 2030—a goal some analysts deem overly optimistic.
The government has not clarified the extent of human oversight over Diella or addressed potential manipulation risks of the AI system.
Debuting earlier this year as a virtual assistant on the e-Albania platform, Diella aids citizens and businesses in obtaining official documents, adorned in traditional Albanian dress. She operates via voice commands, issuing electronically stamped documents, thus minimizing bureaucratic slowdowns.
Some remain skeptical. One Facebook user remarked, “Even Diella will face corruption in Albania,” while another commented, “Corruption will persist, with Diella as the scapegoat.”
The newly elected parliament, set to meet on Friday, has yet to decide on government’s approval.
