In a historic move that has captured global attention, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has announced the appointment of an AI-generated minister named Diella to oversee public tenders. This decision marks the first time in the world that a government has entrusted a virtual entity with a cabinet-level role, signaling a bold step toward digital governance.

Diella’s Role in Public Procurement

Diella, created as part of the government’s e-Albania platform earlier in 2025, has now been elevated to the position of managing all government contracts and tenders. Her role is to ensure that procurement processes are transparent, fully automated, and free from manipulation. By removing human discretion from the system, authorities aim to address one of the most persistent challenges facing governance—corruption in contract awards.

An Impervious “Virtual Cabinet Member”

Prime Minister Rama described Diella as a “virtual cabinet member” designed specifically to be impervious to bribery, threats, or favoritism. Unlike human officials, the AI minister cannot be influenced by external pressures, making her a symbol of impartiality. This innovative approach reflects Albania’s growing reliance on technology to safeguard public trust and create systems that are resistant to corruption.

A Step Toward EU Accession Goals

The appointment also carries significant political weight as Albania works toward meeting European Union accession criteria by 2030. Transparent governance and anti-corruption measures are among the EU’s top priorities for candidate countries. By integrating AI at the highest levels of decision-making, Albania is demonstrating its commitment to aligning with European standards of accountability and good governance.

Public Reaction and International Interest

The news of Diella’s appointment has sparked both curiosity and debate within Albania and abroad. Supporters view the move as a groundbreaking reform that could inspire other nations to consider similar digital solutions. Critics, however, have raised questions about accountability, arguing that a machine cannot be held responsible in the same way as elected or appointed human officials. Despite these concerns, international observers are closely monitoring how this experiment unfolds.

The Future of Digital Governance

Albania’s decision to appoint Diella reflects a larger global trend toward digital governance and the use of artificial intelligence in public administration. While Diella is the first AI to hold a formal ministerial role, her appointment may set a precedent for how technology can be integrated into governance structures worldwide. If successful, this initiative could redefine the relationship between governments, citizens, and technology in the years to come.