Albania has appointed the world’s first artificial intelligence government “minister” in a bold attempt to eliminate corruption.
The digital assistant, called Diella, has been part of the country’s online services since January, guiding citizens through procedures.
Prime Minister Edi Rama revealed on Thursday that Diella will officially join his cabinet, describing it as a “virtual minister.”
“Diella is the first member who is not physically present, but created by artificial intelligence,” Rama said during the announcement.
Dressed in traditional Albanian garb, Diella has been presented as a woman, though officials have not confirmed if this image remains.
Rama said the AI will oversee public tenders, making the process “100 per cent corruption-free” with transparent use of government funds.
“All public spending in the tender process will be perfectly clear,” he explained, promising a gradual shift away from ministry decisions.
The move is significant for Albania, which faces criticism over corruption while seeking to join the European Union by 2030.
Transparency International last year placed Albania 80th out of 180 countries in its global ranking on public sector corruption.
The government hopes that artificial intelligence can rebuild public trust and strengthen accountability across state institutions and financial management.
Rama, re-elected in May, is expected to present his full cabinet shortly, with Diella as the most striking appointment.
By combining technology and governance, Albania is attempting to set a precedent that could influence other governments worldwide.
