Feb 13 • 03:01 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil G1 (PT)

Actress sues Albanian government for using her image in AI minister

Albanian actress Anila Bisha is suing the Albanian government after her image was used to create an AI virtual minister without her consent.

Anila Bisha, a prominent Albanian actress, has taken legal action against the Albanian government for unauthorized use of her likeness in the creation of an AI minister named Diella, appointed by Prime Minister Edi Rama. The AI, representing a new approach to public administration intended to symbolize the fight against corruption, was unveiled in September. Bisha, who had previously signed an agreement permitting limited use of her image for a virtual assistant associated with E-Albania, contends that the agreement did not allow for her portrayal as a virtual minister.

The controversy highlights the ethical implications surrounding the use of personal data and images in the digital age. Bisha argues that the government's decision to use her image as part of an AI minister constitutes an exploitation of her identity and personal data, raising concerns about consent and ownership in these technological innovations. In her filing at the Administrative Court, she is seeking suspension of the AI minister's representation using her likeness.

This case also reflects wider societal issues in Albania related to transparency and public trust, particularly as the government claims to combat corruption and improve service delivery. The reception of the AI minister by the public remains to be seen, but the legal fight initiated by Bisha underscores the potential for public figures to challenge the use and representation of their likenesses, especially within new and evolving digital contexts.

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