In a bold move to streamline government communication, Ukraine has introduced an AI spokesperson for consular information. This virtual representative, named Victory AI, will be responsible for reporting verified information from the consular department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Ukraine to the public. The goal is to provide timely updates on the work of consuls in protecting the rights and interests of Ukrainian citizens abroad, as well as responding to incidents or emergency situations.
“My name symbolizes our main goal – the victory of Ukraine, and my last name – the artificial intelligence that created me. My work will consist of reporting operational and verified information of the consular department of the MFA of Ukraine to the public,” Victory AI explained. By leveraging AI technology, the MFA hopes to cut down on time and resources required for communication processes, particularly during times of conflict or war.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has implemented measures to combat “digital counterfeiting” and ensure the authenticity of the information provided by Victory AI. QR codes have been introduced, which lead to official statements from the ministry itself, allowing viewers to verify the information they receive. This added layer of security aims to prevent misinformation and maintain transparency.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Dmytro Kuleba, believes that employing AI technology in government communication will free up real diplomats to focus on other important tasks. “Real diplomats will be able to be more effective and focus on other tasks of providing assistance to citizens,” he stated. This shift in responsibilities allows human diplomats to dedicate their time and expertise to addressing the needs and concerns of Ukrainian citizens.
Ukraine has been at the forefront of digital transformation in recent years, with a thriving tech industry and a commitment to digitizing government institutions and processes. The establishment of the Ministry of Digital Transformation in 2019 further catalyzed these efforts, leading to the creation of the Diia eGovernment portal. This portal aims to combat corruption by removing the human factor from governmental processes and ensuring efficiency and transparency.
While the use of AI spokespersons in government communication is not entirely new, Ukraine’s decision to employ deepfake technologies sets it apart. Deepfake technologies involve digitally generated visuals or audio that closely resemble reality. By leveraging deepfake technology, Victory AI is able to deliver information in a realistic and engaging manner, enhancing the overall communication experience.
This innovative approach to government communication highlights Ukraine’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies and finding novel solutions to improve efficiency and transparency. As AI continues to advance and become more integrated into various sectors, it is likely that we will see more countries exploring similar applications to enhance their governance systems. Victory AI’s introduction marks a significant step forward in Ukraine’s journey towards a more streamlined and tech-driven government.
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